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Transplant jaw made by 3D printer claimed as first
"The new treatment is a world premiere because it concerns the first patient-specific implant in replacement of the entire lower jaw."
- Dr Jules Poukens from Hasselt University
A 3D printer-created lower jaw has been fitted to an 83-year-old woman's face in what doctors say is the first operation of its kind.
The implant was made out of titanium powder - heated and fused together by a laser, one layer at a time.
Technicians say the operation's success paves the way for the use of more 3D-printed patient-specific parts.