3D printing has changed our perception of mass manufacturing, but there's also a parallel revolution -- doctors are using the technology to save lives.
The doctors took a CT scan of his trachea and bronchus to produce a precise image, from which they could design the device. Using computer modeling software and making some modifications, they created a splint that perfectly matched Kaiba's windpipe and printed it with a biodegradable polyester called polycaprolactone.
The custom splint fits around Kaiba's airway, and it will dissolve within three years. Image: University of Michigan Health System
The splint goes around the outside of the bronchus, then sutures pass through the splint to tether the trachea through the inside. This expands the bronchus and inflates the trachea. With growth, the splint opens up.
Even though Green and Hollister sized the design to Kaiba's bronchus, they crafted three or four increments of about a half a millimeter above and below the diameter from his scan. Then they made about five copies of each, just to make sure they had enough going into the operating room.
3 simple steps that doctors - and everyone else - should use to secure their information and keep them private.
WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT
Is there anything more personal than your medical information? I assume not and thus would expect my medical professional to be aware of these 3 basic security principles and respect them strictly. However, it may not be the case and I would recommend this sort of information to be built into the standard medical practice curriculum because I would not want my doctor's laptop to be the weak link in my medical record transmission chain.
For other articles on this field: http://www.fiercehealthcare.com/topic/cybersecurity