The medical industry is constantly evolving. Medical practitioners have been conducting research on newer and better tools to improve healthcare. One of the latest technological advancements to hit the industry is the 3D printing technology.
3D printing technology has proved to be a game changer in health care. It has played a major role in improving healthcare services in recent years. Its application, particularly in view of face transplant operations, has been phenomenal.
The first 3D-enabled face transplant operation took place in Spain in 2010, whereas doctors from Brigham and Women’s performed the first full face transplant in the United States in 2011.
Typically, three kinds of software are used for medical 3D printing: segmentation software, CAD software and printer driver/software. All of these are developed by commercial companies.
Benefits
A number of factors have led to the increase in the use of advanced 3D printing technology for face transplants. Firstly, surgeons can work with precision and save a considerable amount of time before and during surgery with 3D printing. It can help them get faster, better and reliable results. To help them prepare better for a transplant surgery, doctors have been using 3D printed images of bones, skull, metal plates and soft tissue for better face reconstruction and smooth surgical operation.
Prior to the 3D printing technology, CT images or photographs were the only source for monitoring soft tissue changes. Nowadays, doctors can study and analyze the soft tissue and the bone structure of a patient with 3D printing. As a result, this makes way for them to practice technique before the actual surgical operation takes place, which helps them avoid costly mistakes.
And while 3D printing is redefining face transplant operations and improving the lives of face transplant recipients, it is also bringing a level of success and sophistication at reasonable prices. Most of the 3D printers are becoming increasingly affordable, which is why they are now easily accessible by many doctors, hospitals and medical researchers. In addition, 3D printers are easy to use and update, and are highly reliable.
Other medical areas
3D printing technology is not just restricted to face transplant only. The technology has been making waves in other areas of healthcare as well. Recently, the doctors at Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, New York City, printed a 3D model of a baby’s heart before the operation.
A major breakthrough
There is no doubt that the healthcare system can thrive with innovation. 3D printing technology is a medical breakthrough. And if more medical practitioners are provided with this essential tool and the knowledge on how to use it, there will be a substantial improvement in complex surgeries, quality of health and patient care.
Making use of sophisticated 3D printing facility in medicine can help doctors and surgeons improve healthcare in a cost-effective and tangible way. With its immense benefits, it is safe to believe that the 3D printing technology will become more accessible to every hospital, doctor, and surgeon in the near future.
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