3D Printed Prosthetics Is The Real Deal

3D printing does far more than just churn out interesting bits and pieces that you require, perhaps even to print substitute LEGO bricks that you can call your own? Thing is, those with a more altruistic vision will see that 3D printing has its place in the medical world. Cornell bioengineers and physicians have worked together to merge the implementation of 3D printing and injectable gel molds, creating an artificial ear which actually looks, feels and even functions, like a natural one.

According to Dr. Jason Spector, director of the Laboratory for Bioregenerative Medicine and Surgery and associate professor of plastic surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, touted that 3D printing is “absolutely” the best option that reconstructive surgeons currently can undertake to assist kids who need to have a new ear after losing it due to trauma or cancer. Thing is, it will take around half a decade before such methods will end up in a widespread manner in clinical trials.

Edwin Kee
Categories: Medical
Tags: 3D Printing