For the millions of people every year who have or need medical devices implanted, a new advancement in 3D printing technology developed at the University of Florida promises significantly quicker implantation of devices that are stronger, less expensive, more flexible and more comfortable than anything currently available.In a paper published today in the journal Science Advances, researchers lay out the process they developed for using 3D printing and soft silicone to manufacture items that millions of patients use: ports for draining bodily fluids, implantable bands, balloons, soft catheters, slings and meshes.Silicone is 3D printed into the micro-organogel support material. The printing nozzle follows a predefined trajectory, depositing liquid silicone in its wake. The liquid silicone is supported by the micro-organgel material during this printing process.http://bit.ly/2r4YE9S

title="YouTube video player"
id="videoFrame58_0"
class="youtube_iframe_small"
src="//www.youtube.com/embed/rQtxdw2SFAo?wmode=opaque"
frameborder="0"
allowfullscreen=""
scrolling="no">