UCLA orthopedic surgeon Dr. Andrew Jensen has successfully employed 3D printing technology to improve surgical outcomes for a patient with a complex clavicle injury. The procedure involved creating a model of the patient’s healthy right clavicle to guide the surgical repair of his injured left side, with the 3D-printed model costing approximately $1,000.
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Jens Rosmus, a 54-year-old Southern California resident, sought treatment after experiencing limited mobility following a motorcycle accident. His left clavicle had not healed properly, preventing him from participating in his usual athletic activities and limiting his range of motion.
The use of 3D-printed models in surgical planning is gaining traction across the United States. According to the National Institute of Health, 95% of surgeons consider these models valuable tools in the medical field. The American Hospital Association reports that over 100 hospitals nationwide now maintain centralized 3D-printing facilities.
Dr. Jensen notes the practical benefits of using 3D-printed models during surgery: “They’re under anesthesia less time, less likely you have a medical complication. There’s also the incision is open to air a shorter amount of time that decreases the risk of infection.”
The surgical outcome for Rosmus has been positive, restoring full range of motion to his left shoulder. “It gives me even physically a wide open feeling,” Rosmus said. “I’m feeling much more just flexible, and yeah, I’m just excited to be doing all of the sports again.”
Source: spectrumnews1.com
