Student Article
3D-Printed Liver Models Help Surgeons "Rehearse" Cancer Surgeries
Replica (noun): An exact copy of something.
Synthetic (adjective): Made by humans; not natural.
Imitation (noun): Something made to look like something else.
Complications (noun): Problems that make a situation more difficult.
Scientists are using advanced technology to help doctors practice surgeries. Let's explore how 3D-printed liver models are making a difference in medical training.
A new way to practice surgery
Scientists at Nottingham Trent University have developed a method to 3D print realistic models of cancer patients' organs. These models allow surgeons to rehearse procedures before performing them on real patients. The technique uses scans of patients' organs to create accurate replicas, including blood vessels, tissue, and tumors.
Building a realistic organ
The models are constructed using synthetic fibers and gels, layer by layer. They have a texture similar to real diseased organs, with different tissue hardnesses in the blood vessels, liver tissue, and tumors. The models are even filled with imitation blood to make them as realistic as possible.
Better practice, better surgery
By practicing on these models, surgeons can improve their skills and be better prepared for real surgeries. This helps reduce the risk of complications and makes surgeries safer for patients. Each patient's organ is unique, so these models help surgeons understand the specific challenges they might face.
© Jason Goodyer / Our Media
Replica (noun): An exact copy of something.
Synthetic (adjective): Made by humans; not natural.
Imitation (noun): Something made to look like something else.
Complications (noun): Problems that make a situation more difficult.