New 3D printing method for patient-specific medical devices developed

US researchers have developed a novel 3D printing method that could facilitate the creation of patient-specific medical devices.

The Northeastern University-developed technique is able to create magnetic fields to shape composite materials that combine plastics and ceramics, producing biomedical devices that are both stronger and lighter than current models, as well as offering customised designs.

This could have a wide range of applications, such as in the creation of patient-specific catheters, especially for premature newborns, making it easier to account for the individual physiology and needs of the patient.

By using magnetic fields to guide the precise design of the devices, the researchers can ensure the technique is safe and able to penetrate the body and many other materials without causing any damage.

Joshua Martin, a doctoral candidate who assisted the research, said: "We're finally scratching the surface where we can theoretically determine that a particular fibre architecture leads to improved mechanical properties and we can also produce those complicated architectures."