3D printed cartilage

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Researchers want to 3D print cartilage using human cells as ink. This new method could print prostheses and replacement tissue for the nose, ears and knees.

of the Swedish researchers from the Wallenberg Wood Science Center presented a new idea to the American Chemical Society 3D print prostheses or replacement tissues for the nose, ears and knees : useink made from the patient's cells. A method that could be used as much for plastic surgery, sports medicine and arthritis treatments.

Their objective ? Create cartilage and repair damage from disease or cancer. If scientists have decided to work with the ear and nose, it is simply because these are the hardest parts of the body to repair. They hope to one day be able to remedy these difficulties with the 3D printer.

An ink made up of human cells

To make this special ink, scientists first boost the primary cell production in the patient. The researchers then make a dough made up of polysaccharides, which allow the formation of organic structures, and cartilage cells of the patient. This paste will serve as‘Ink to 3D printer. Tests are underway to find out if the products are viable but the first tests are encouraging.

Cartilage and bone in 3D?

Some hospitals and doctors have already used 3D printing to treat their patients. Indeed, a surgical team at Salamanca University Hospital asked an Australian-based medical device company to create a titanium implant that would take up the complex structure of the rib cage of one of their patient. The 54-year-old man suffered from a rare tumor, growing around his sternum and part of his rib cage. To remove it, the doctors had no choice but to remove the part affected by the tumor and then decided to replace it. More recently, Australian patient received two 3D vertebrae. A long and tedious operation that allowed him to recover from cancer and possible paralysis.

In the medical field, this is the most expecting surgery from 3D printing. Many possibilities will gradually appear. 3D printing will change medicine as we know it. The future is already here.

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