How 3D printing can be used by front-line NHS staff

The project is looking at how 3D photography and 3D printing could be used in areas such as burns therapy and wound-care.

The project is funded by the Welsh Government Health Technology and Telehealth Fund and run by consultancy PDR, which has experience of using 3D printing in medical applications.

The funding will pay for five scanners and a 3D printer. The scanners will be used to capture patient data, which will be sent to PDR where the consultancy will use it to design patient-specific devices such as prostheses or cutting and drilling guides.

The aim is to enable low-cost access to 3D printing that will allow NHS staff to commission custom-fitting devices.

The project is being backed by the Centre for Applied Reconstructive Technologies in Surgery in Wales. Cartis is seeking NHS staff working directly with patients to take part in the project.

It is seeking staff working in the areas of: occupational therapy, burns therapy, cleft lip and palate, breast care, radiation therapy and wound care.

NHS staff interested in taking part should contact Dr Dominic Eggbeer.