Life Science 3D Printing News

20171009 171619 edit

Dr. AndreAna Pena is our Senior Editor covering the Life Sciences in 3D Printing.  AndreAna has a PhD in Cellular and Structural Biology from UTHSC San Antonio. In addition to writing about developments in bioprinting and medical printing, Dr Pena drives research in the oral microbiome and develops bioactive dental appliances that change the oral environment to improve oral health.  Dr. Pena has worked on an expansive range of topics including cancer, biofuels, neuroscience, microbiology, genetics, evolutionary biology, materials engineering, bioinformatics, and 3d printing from the nano-scale up.

3D Printing proves Roller Coaster Rides can make Kidney Stones pass

Anecdotal evidence had suggested that high-impact activities, such as roller coaster riding or bungee jumping, could result in spontaneous passage of kidney stones, however 3D printing has now been used to validate the efficacy of a trip to Magic Mountain next time you suffer from kidney stones.  A study was conducted at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine where Dr. David D. Wartinger performed research on whether roller coaster rides can actually facilitate kidney stone passage. A 3D replica of a patient’s kidney was printed in clear silicone material and then was monitored with ureteroscopy during a roller coaster ride. The results verified that roller coaster rides can assist kidney stone passage.

Source: http://jaoa.org/article.aspx?articleid=2557373