微型3D打印机助力医生精准修复声带

Core Viewpoint - A Canadian research team has developed the world's smallest 3D bioprinter, inspired by the flexible trunk of an elephant, to precisely deliver therapeutic hydrogels during vocal cord surgeries, addressing challenges in post-operative healing and voice restoration [1] Group 1: Technology Development - The 3D bioprinter features a print head that is only 2.7 millimeters wide, mounted on a slender flexible robotic arm [1] - The robotic arm mimics the movement of an elephant's trunk, allowing for manual control via a surgical endoscope to accurately deposit hydrogels onto artificial vocal cords used for surgical training [1] Group 2: Clinical Application - The injection of hydrogels that simulate the natural structure of vocal cords has been shown to effectively promote healing and support new tissue growth after surgeries for vocal cord cysts or hyperplasia [1] - The research team aims to program the bioprinter for autonomous operation, enabling it to follow pre-set printing paths based on images of the surgical site in the future [1] Group 3: Future Prospects - Researchers believe that with further improvements and testing, this bioprinter could have various applications beyond vocal cord repair surgeries [1]