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A novel 3D modelling and printing technique has been used to create a prosthetic jaw for the first time. ÌýShirley Anderson, an Indiana resident, was diagnosed with cancer on his tongue almost 18 years ago.
Radiation treatment destroyed his Adam's apple and jaw. A prosthetic lower jaw was made for him by Dr. Travis Bellicchi from Indiana University but proved to be too heavy. He was only able to wear it for a few hours each day and hid his scarred face behind a surgical mask for years.
With this problem in mind, Bellicchi began working with students at the university's Media Arts and Sciences program to develop a new solution.
He eventually considered 3D printing and, with it, invented a process eventually known as the Shirley Technique, which combined novel and traditional approaches to the production of prosthesis.
First, Bellicchi and his team digitally scanned Anderson's face to capture details of the skull. This would allow researchers to test a much lighter prosthesis for the patient.
Scientists then used the digital sculpting software known as Zbrush to model a prosthetic jaw for Anderson. Zbrush was useful in creating the narrow feathered edges of the prosthetic, making it more lifelike.
Bellicchi says they chose to use traditional materials because they were predictable, biocompatible and had research behind them.
"[W]e know how to do the characterization to make them lifelike," Ìýµþ±ð±ô±ô¾±³¦³¦³ó¾±.
Molds created through Zbrush were then printed using a Formlabs desktop 3D printer, researchers said. The resulting jaw prosthesis is truly remarkable and uncannily realistic.
When asked about his reaction over the prosthesis, Anderson described it — with the help of a whiteboard — as "true amazement."
The process used to create Anderson's prosthesis is truly efficient, as it can create the object in just six weeks. Bellicchi said six other patients have already received their own prosthesis. One man even received a prosthetic ear.
Watch the video below.
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[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quNhCGzjf3c[/embed]
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This article was referenced from Tech Times. Read the full article
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