Student Article
3D-Printed Liver Models Help Surgeons "Rehearse" Cancer Surgeries
Groundbreaking (adjective): New and innovative.
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.
The use of 3D-printed organ models is revolutionizing medical training. Let's delve into how these realistic liver models are helping surgeons rehearse complex cancer surgeries.
A new way to practice surgery
Scientists at Nottingham Trent University have developed a groundbreaking method to 3D print realistic models of cancer patients' organs. These models enable surgeons to rehearse procedures before performing them on real patients. The technique involves using scans of patients' organs to create accurate replicas, complete with blood vessels, tissue, and tumors.
Building a realistic organ
The models are constructed using a combination of synthetic fibers and gels, layer by layer. They mimic the texture of real diseased organs, with varying tissue hardnesses in the blood vessels, liver tissue, and tumors. The models are even filled with imitation blood to enhance realism.
Better practice, better surgery
By practicing on these models, surgeons can refine their skills and be better prepared for actual surgeries. This reduces the risk of complications and improves patient safety. Each patient's organ is unique, so these models help surgeons understand the specific challenges they might encounter.
© Jason Goodyer / Our Media
Groundbreaking (adjective): New and innovative.
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.