3D printed organs offer realistic practice models

Scientific innovation: Toshiaki Morikawa (second from left), a doctor at the Jikei University hospital in Tokyo, using the Biotexture Wet Model to teach interns. — AFP

TOKYO: An incision from the surgeon’s scalpel sends liquid oozing over the surface of the lung, but on this occasion it doesn’t matter if something goes wrong – the doctor can simply create another model with a 3D printer.

The ultra-realistic lung – wet, soft and complete with tumours and blood vessels – is one of a range of organs being produced by a Japanese firm that will allow surgeons to hone their skills without hurting anyone.