3D printing has definitely evolved over the years, it started out with pretty much just making prototypes for a bunch of different industries. Today, 3D printing has taken it to a new level with medical technology.
Recently an eclectic group of people gathered in an AS220 lab in downtown Providence, RI to create prosthetic hands for children in East Africa. One of the creators of these hands said it is “an ingenuous use of the machine” because it is being used for something as meaningful and important instead of a commercial use.
I find it remarkable that a small group of people were able to produce something medically advanced in a short period of time. The group of people who created these prosthetics were able to create eight models to send to children in Africa, which makes me wonder what else can be produced with 3D printers?!
Another revolutionary Medical advancement that derives from 3D printing is the idea of a 3D printed cast. A man by the name of Jake Evill created a prototype of a 3D printed cast after he fractured a bone in his arm. He custom made a cast to fit his arm using only three steps.
First he took the X-ray of his arm, took a 3D scan of his arm, and then created the 3D print of the cast.
After experiencing the horrors of a plaster cast, I would have to say that being able to have the option of getting a Cortex Cast would make daily tasks a lot easier. This cast is lightweight, waterproof, and extremely durable. This cast also seems to have hygiene benefits where there is no odor, and the skin stays healthy, not to mention makes it easier to scratch the itchy spots!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNiOGw5Sej8
The cast is still being tweaked to provide optimum healing and comfort for people, but many orthopedics are interested as well as investors.
Overall, 3D printing is starting to revolutionize the medical market, who knows what advances will come with 3D printing within the next couple years, its going to be exciting to find out!
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