3D printed molds: the future of creating implants for craniofacial surgery?

Researchers from Rice University (TX, USA) have developed a technique to grow live bones to repair craniofacial injuries. The process uses a 3D printed bioreactor which is attached to the patient's rib and acts as a mold. The research has been funded by the Armed Forces Institute of Regenerative Medicine (MA, USA) and aims to improve craniofacial reconstruction by using the body's natural healing processes. Current reconstruction techniques are invasive and rely on the use of bone grafts that are harvested from the lower leg, hip and shoulder of the patient. The new technique uses a 3D printed bioreactor which...