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Student Article

3D-Printed Liver Models Help Surgeons "Rehearse" Cancer Surgeries

By: Jason Goodyer
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Scientists develop realistic organ models for surgeons to practice complex procedures.

The article "3D-Printed Liver Models Help Surgeons "Rehearse" Cancer Surgeries" from BBC Science Focus explains how scientists have developed a method to 3D print realistic models of cancer patients' organs. These models include imitation tumors and blood, allowing surgeons to practice procedures before performing them on real patients.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
3-56-89-12
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Engineering and Technology
Keywords
3D-printed organs3D printingcancer surgerysurgical practicemedical technology
A computer monitor that shows image of a liver and a 3D printing machine that holds a small model of liver
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 500-700L
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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 800-1000L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100-1300L
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