Joseph Dewitt, DO, used 3D-printed technology to create a replica of a patient's spine before surgery at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Mich., according to WILX 10.
The technology, called "Firefly," is a preliminary measure taken to improve the safety and accuracy of the procedure.
Prior to surgery, the patient has a CT scan to create a 3D replica of their spine in the computer. The model is then 3D printed in actual size, which allows physicians better preparation in terms of placement and trajectory.
Dr. Dewitt said the technology produces a 99 percent accuracy rate versus 95 or 96 percent without it.