Stratasys Launches Next-Gen BioMimics- Highly Realistic
A global leader in applied additive technology solutions, Stratasys, aims to create the equivalent of a flight simulator for the medical device and training industry by 3D printing life-like bones, hearts, and vascular systems.
It has now launched an effort called BioMimics, which couples 3D printing, various materials and services to create lifelike anatomical structures for training physicians and medical testing.
The company said it developed BioMimics with researchers and manufacturers to offer bone and heart models with plans to launch vascular structures in early 2018.
Eliminating restrictions associated with training, research and testing on animal, mannequin, or cadaver models – BioMimics effectively mirrors the intricacies of both soft tissue and hard bones via multi-material 3D printing. Combining Stratasys’ proven PolyJet 3D printing technology alongside new materials and software, organizations can create specific 3D printed models that match what professionals encounter during live medical scenarios. Additionally, OEMs can gain real-time feedback on device performance in realistic environments – prior to actual deployment.
“Testing innovative medical devices, teaching principles of surgery, providing continuing medical education, and demonstrating new products to clinicians all require ‘bench-top’ models that simulate human bodies and diseases. Much like simulation and co-piloting builds expertise for pilots, medical practitioners hone skills throughout their careers to provide exceptional care,
” said Scott Rader, GM of Healthcare Solutions at Stratasys. “The challenges of today’s solutions include animal models that only approximate human anatomy, and cadavers that don’t retain the live-tissue feel and often lack targeted pathology.”Another bottleneck in treating, say, a rare congenital heart defect, would be a lack of animal or cadaver hearts with that particular defect, said Mike Gaisford, director of marketing, medical solutions at Stratasys. Being able to 3D-print a number of models with the same anatomy would solve this problem.
The models are created via multi-material 3D printing, allowing them to mimic both soft tissue and hard bones. At the moment, BioMimics may be used to model heart and bone structures, and the company plans to add vascular anatomies next year.
“The Jacobs Institute has been using Stratasys 3D printing solutions to replicate vascular anatomy for many years. The BioMimics capabilities Stratasys has now developed enable a level of biomechanical realism and clinical sophistication not previously available in any vascular model.” said Dr. Adnan Siddiqui, Chief Medical Officer at Jacobs Institute, Vice-Chairman and Professor of Neurosurgery at University of Buffalo Neurosurgery. “BioMimics will enhance medical innovation in vascular disease by enabling improved pre-clinical validation of new devices and clinically realistic training simulators.”
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“As one of the top research and pediatrics hospitals in Canada, SickKids is committed to unprecedented innovation to positively impact the well-being of children around the world. We have developed new training programs through 3D printing that allow surgeons to practice procedures on replicas of real patient’s pathology,” said Shi-Joon Yoo, MD, PhD, Cardiac Radiologist at the Hospital for Sick Children and Professor of Medical Imaging and Pediatrics at University of Toronto. “BioMimics enhances the realism and clinical validity of the models even further – allowing the surgeons to develop the techniques and skills that will translate into live patient cases.”
