Thanks to 3D design and 3D printing around the world, ‘one size fits all’ no longer has to be a label. Whether you are a designer or an engineer, or a patient waiting for a new surgery or medical device, 3D printing technology allows for self-sustainability, affordability, and speed in the creation of an infinite list of objects and devices—so many of which have not even been dreamed up yet.
Being able to create new innovations to our own preferences, as needed, does indeed give the human race an enormous new advantage in so many industries. This is especially important in the medical field. With a focus on being patient-specific, doctor, researchers, and manufacturers are able to create parts and products with an intent on strengthening the quality of life for patients everywhere—and in some cases, saving their lives altogether.
Companies like Stoke Med, recently launched by Stoke Ventures, are involved in helping medical professionals to offer extremely specialized care to their patients via 3D printed models. In working with doctors and surgeons in the orthopedic, maxillofacial, oncology, and cardiac fields, they allow for progressive analysis and treatment of the patient.
Example of a detailed and smooth patient specific 3D printed model, used for orthopedic surgery. [Image: Stoke Med]
3D printed medical models offer an incredible range of benefits to doctors, students, and patients; for example, if a patient has a
tumor, a conventional CT scan can be converted to 3D and patient-specific model can be made. The model aids in:
- Diagnosing the patient
- Educating the patient and their family regarding the condition and impending surgery
- Training medical students
- Working as a practice sample for surgeons in days leading up to the procedure
- Guiding surgeons in the operating room
With 3D printed models such as theoe now available from Stoke Med, surgeons can make better decisions about surgeries, as well as performing them more quickly and accurately due to guidance in the operating room. This leads to affordability in medical care, along with a reduction in the need for other types of scans such as X-Rays or MRIs. For medical professionals using Stoke Med 3D models, the process begins as they upload the CT data to the Stoke Med quote page. The CT data is processed, a 3D file is created, and then a high-quality, patient-specific model can be made.
Example of a detailed and smooth patient specific 3D printed model, used for maxillofacial surgery. [Image: Stoke Med]
Overall, the use of such models will lead to better—and more individualized—care for patients, many of whom are suffering from serious conditions. Some of the surgical procedures may be completely new too, and with a 3D printed model to study, the surgeon can go into the operating room fully prepared.
What do you think of this news? Let us know your thoughts; join the discussion of this and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com.
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