With all the novel new research in the medical sector, 3D printing crops up in so many different ways. From skin repair to tissue growth assistance, additive manufacturing is aiding in medical developments everywhere. However, the newest leap appears to have come from a University of Nebraska-Lincoln professor who has invented his own medical implants that forego the entire process of retrieval after healing, instead allowing the implant to dissolve into the system. These dissolvable medical implants may alleviate the burdensome removal procedures and limit painful procedures for patients.
Professor Michael Sealy underwent his own painful experience with a fractured elbow when he was in fifth grade. While it recovered just fine, the screws caused him immense discomfort. Now, as a professor of mechanical engineering, he’s taken it upon himself to produce a far more efficient magnesium screw implant that dissipates into the body over time, eliminating that painful second procedure meant for implant removal.
“Let’s avoid this whole idea of a permanent implant where you may need a secondary repair revision surgery. Let’s have one that the surgeon puts in and then slowly over time, it dissolves away,” said Sealy.
Producing the Screws
Michael Sealy holds examples of implants (October 2, 2018) Photo by Craig Chandler / University Communication
“We use a laser and it creates very, very small dents, about the diameter of your hair. Putting these dents all into the surface of the implant you are making it harder, you are making it stronger, and you can use that to control how fast these orthopedic implants degrade inside your body,” said Sealy.
Featured image courtesy of KLNTV, retrieved via their website.
Leave a Reply