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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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New Polymers for Medical Market

Image result for insulin pen dupont
DuPont will be showcasing new polymers in its healthcare line for medical devices and biomedical materials at upcoming trade shows, according to PlasticsToday.
The company has created a new low-friction grade of a polyacetal polymre that will be used in the UnoPen, which is a variable-dose injector pen that dispenses insulin and other therapies. UnoPen is made by Ypsomed of Sweden. The material, Delrin SC699 polyacetal, was developed with the healthcare industry’s need for parts requiring precision molding in mind, Doug Smock writes for PlasticsToday. The pen’s dose dial sleeve is molded from the new polyactetal material. Because the sleeve has very little friction, the patient will only need a small amount of force to administer the insulin.
DuPont has been working with TigGenix in Belgium to develop an arthroscopic delivery device called the ChondroMimetic. Smock describes it as “a collagen-based implant for the treatment of small cartilage and underlying bone defects.” He adds:
The device consists of several plastic components, including a white housing made from ABS and a translucent polycarbonate delivery tube at its tip, which allows visual progress of the implant delivery to be maintained during the surgical procedure.
Two components made from Zytel SC nylon-the plunger and compressor fingers-come into direct contact with the implant and are help hold it in place. The components require stiffness, low-friction, and flexibility. SC stands for special control.
In addition to devices, DuPont is also working on polymers for new biomedical materials. For example, Smock writes, its Actamax Surgical Materials joint venture with Royal DSM recently applied for a U.S. patent on a tissue adhesive and sealant that includes polyglycerol aldehyde.

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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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