Revolutionary 3D printing used in medical science is being used to reconstruct an artificial face. Source: ThinkstockSource: ThinkStock
IN A revolutionary step for medical technology, 3D printing is being used to reconstruct the face of a man whose skull was crushed in a motorbike accident.
Reported on the BBC, a UK hospital will be employing this groundbreaking idea - believed to be the world's first - from the work of the Centre of Applied Reconstructive Technologies in Surgery (Cartis).
The article explains how the patient will undergo a CT scan and the doctors will rebuild the face through symmetry. It goes on to say that "the guides and implants are being produced from medical-grade titanium in Belgium, at one of the world's few specialist 3D printing facilities".
3D printing has taken off big time with everything from guns to mechanical parts, footwear and potentially Happy Meals being created through this quick and efficient method. Now in the medical world it could be set to change lives by being a viable solution to costly and time-consuming production of implants and prothesises.
Our top 5 other most exciting uses of 3D printing:
Art - creativity can run wild here with sculptures and 3D pieces available to download over the internet.
Furniture - you could change your living room suite every day if you wanted to. Also download or design yourself an ornament then print it and display it. No more Ikea runs.
Fashion - from earrings to necklaces and belts, the possibilities are huge. Fashion designer Iris Van Herpen often shows clothes made entirely from the printer.
Toys - the simple, plastic shapes of puzzles, dolls and action figures are a perfect fit allowing the exciting possibility for children to design their own toys.
Motoring - expensive parts that need to be imported can be a thing of the past. Also, some companies are experimenting with the idea of printing an entire car. At home, you could even print your own Aston Martin. Just imagine.
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