Flexible 3D Printer Repairs Damaged Tissue From The Inside
Researchers at the University of New South Wales in Sydney have developed a flexible 3D bioprinter that can print organic material onto human tissue from the inside out. Unlike other bioprinting approaches, this system is minimally invasive and will help avoid major surgeries or organ removal in the future.
During the operation, the device is inserted through the mouth or anus, after which the surgeon brings it to the damaged organ. Doctors expressed the hope that in the future this printer will eliminate dangerous surgery and make operations less invasive.
The robotic arm is powered by a hydraulic system consisting of three soft tissue bellows actuators. These are launched by special syringes driven by a DC motor that pump water. Flexible print head allows the print nozzle to move in three directions, just like a conventional desktop 3D printer.
According to experts, such equipment will facilitate surgical intervention, since thanks to a 3D printer it will be possible to avoid the most serious and risky operations.
The F3DB device is equipped with a manipulator, which is designed to collect constructs from living cells directly on damaged tissues and internal organs.
