Technology is a crazy thing. So insane that a vet can reproduce a piece of an animal’s skull…via 3D printing.
Patches is a nine-year-old dachshund fighting cancer, in the form of a tumor pushing on her brain and eye socket. The prognosis looked grim, until a vet from University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College had an idea.
According to CNN, veterinary surgical oncologist Dr. Michelle Oblak worked with Cornell University small-animal surgeon Galina Hayes to remove the tumor growing on the dog’s skull. They replaced the missing skull piece with a 3D-printed plate, made by Adeiss, a medical technological company.
Prior to 3D printing options, a titanium mesh plate would have been used–with a more generic fit. This custom option increases the chances of healing and recovery.
Check out all the details in the video below:
Good news! Patches is six months cancer free! And added bonus: The precise printing means there’s hope for more pets (and humans!) out there battling serious health conditions.
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