Surgeons Use 3D Printing To Practice A Complex Brain Surgery

November 27th, 2015

Awake Goy

The impact of 3D printing continues to expand as it further establishes itself into several major industries, including architecture, technology and, most notably, healthcare. In September of this year, we wrote about a 54 year old Spanish cancer patient who had 3D printed titanium ribs and a sternum successfully implanted into his body. (Read more)

Now, just several months later, we are happy to share the story of Teresa Flint, a mother of three who has also seen the benefits of 3D printing firsthand.

Teresa’s life took an unexpected turn for the worse when she suffered a brain aneurysm, leaving doctors in the challenging position of having to perform a very complex surgery in hopes of saving her life. While the surgeon’s training and experience could have potentially been enough to complete the procedure successfully, they were able to increase their chances of success significantly by using this remarkable technology.

Prior to performing the surgery, a replica of Teresa’s brain vessel anatomy was printed, allowing the doctors and surgeons involved to try out out techniques beforehand and formulate the best plan possible. The end result? A successful surgery that has restored health to a loving mother.

The replica was produced by Stratasys Ltd., who used a flexible photopolymer material to mimic the feel of human tissue, giving doctors the most realistic experience possible. To date, the company has been able to positively impact the lives of many, including several children with heart problems.

3D printing is a recurring topic here at CE, as we love to report on enhancements in both the fields of healthcare and technology. For more 3D printing related stories I encourage you to check out any of the following links:

See How This Mutilated Sea Turtle Received A 3D-Printed Jaw

Take A Look At Some Of The Most Creative 3D Printed Objects Ever Printed

Chinese Firm Builds A 5-Storey Building Using A 3D Printer

Scientists Develop Giant 3D Printer That Can Build A House In 24 Hours

3D Printing Helps Disabled Duck Get A New Foot!

What are your thoughts on the continued enhancements being made possible through 3D printing? If you or a loved one were in a time of need, would you be more inclined to trust the medical system if they were given access to trial runs via 3D printing? Let us know via the comment section below.

SOURCES

https://ca.news.yahoo.com/blogs/geekquinox/3d-printing-lets-surgeons-practice-surgery-on-life-like-replicas-before-you-go-under-the-knife-172532999.html

http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-34910009

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