Science_Illustrated_Australia_-_Issue70_2019

78 | SCIENCE ILLUSTRATED

PHOTODOC BONES

Canadian scientists

replaced 70% of the

dachshund Patches’

skull with titanium

after removing a tumour

the size of an orange.

Scans determined the

size of the tumour,

so the 3D-printed skull

section could be

customised down to

the location of the

screw holes.

Scientists have

developed synthetic

cartilage consisting

of seven layers of

interwoven fi bres, each

thinner than a human

hair. The fi bres make

up 3D scaffolding that

is supplied with gel

to which stem cells

can attach to form

new cartilage.

A 69-year-old pilot

had his ankle replaced

after damage by

arthritis and bone cysts.

By means of CT and

MRI scans, doctors

made a 3D-printed copy

of the talus bone, which

is diffi cult to treat.

The 3D-printed ankle

worked perfectly.

NEW SKULL The dog Patches got a new 3D-printed skull following brain surgery.

ANKLE REPLACEMENT 3D printers help scientists treat bone diseases in new ways.

ARTIFICIAL CARTILAGE 3D scaffolding made of microscopic fibres is printed and converted into synthetic cartilage.

COU

RTE

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