The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs turned to 3D printing once again, this time to improve shoulder replacements, 3DPrint.com reports.
What you should know:
1. The VA has not shied from innovation, using 3D printers for things like artificial lungs. Now, the VA turned to 3D printing to make custom shoulder models.
2. Surgeons have difficulties with shoulder joints because of the small nature of the bones. By using 3D printers, surgeons can make a 3D printed model to get a better understanding of a patients' anatomy.
3. The models help surgeons reduce complications and create more efficient surgeries.
4. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said, "VA remains at the forefront of innovative work in 3D printing by expanding our expertise across VA. Through this growing virtual network, VA continues to help define how 3D printing technology will be used broadly in medicine for the benefit of patients."