3D-printed body parts

Plastic manufacturing isn’t just for toys and the latest smartphones; it’s also used to save lives. Plastic manufacturing for medical devices has advanced in recent years, moving beyond tubes and bags make medical devices such as plastic hearts, stents, and even body parts such as a 3D printed plastic ear.

3D-printed body parts

According to the Canadian Plastics Industry Association, a few (of many) recent uses for medical plastics include:

  • Plastic hearts – Plastic artificial hearts include plastic tubes that route blood through plastic blood ventricles while patients wait for heart transplants. Currently, patients with plastic heart implants must remain in the hospital but that could change if a mobile power supply wins regulatory approval.

  • 3D-printed body parts – 3D plastic printers quickly print three dimensional objects by layering plastics into the desired shape. While useful for manufacturing prototypes, 3D printing is also being researched for use in the medical industry to “print” body parts (such as ear cartilage implants) with a plastic base and living cells.

  • Plastic skin – A special type of plastic “skin” is being developed for use in prosthetics. It is electrically conducive and designed to restore itself after being cut.

  • Polyurethane foam – Polyurethane foam is being researched as a possible way to stabilize trauma patients with internal injuries. It’s ability to expand and conform to the injury’s shape could reduce blood loss and improve survivability.

  • Bacteria-resistant medical devices – Bacteria-resistant plastics with nonstick surfaces are being researched and developed. These plastics have the potential to prevent bacterial infections, a common problem within the healthcare industry.

It’s an exciting time for the plastic manufacturing industry and the health care industry alike. It’s also an exciting time for patients. These plastic medical device manufacturing innovations are saving lives now and have the potential to save many more lives in the future. In addition to saving the lives of those suffering from life-threatening conditions, medical plastics, such as plastic vaccination patches, can make preventative health care more convenient and pain-free.

Source:http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2013/12/19/598293/10062101/en/Innovations-in-Plastic-Drive-Past-Present-Future-Medical-Care.html

Adrian Thomas is the author of this article about plastic manufacturing. He has used a variety of online sources including Acrylic Art custom plastic manufacturer to write this article. Feel free to connect with him over at Google+.