Eardrum printed on a 3D printer in the USA
Experts from Harvard University in the United States have developed a material from which a tympanic membrane implant, similar in properties to a natural organ, can be printed on a 3D printer, Vesti reports.
The implant is similar to a spoked bicycle wheel and is made of specially formulated synthetic resin-based inks for 3D printing. The development not only restores hearing, but also serves as a framework for the regeneration of the patient's own tissues.
In addition, the new implant has another significant advantage: unlike tampanoplasty surgery, it does not require an incision behind the ear to install it. The 3D printed eardrum can be inserted directly through the ear canal.
To bring the device to market, Harvard University created a startup called Beacon Bio.
Earlier, scientists from the Vreden Center for Traumatology in St. Petersburg developed a unique endoprosthesis. It takes into account the anatomical features of the patient as much as possible.
