HEALTHCARE
Custom Medical Implants:
Surgeons use 3D scanning to create custom-fitted implants, such as hip or knee replacements. These implants match a patient's unique anatomy, leading to better outcomes and reduced recovery times.
Prosthetics:
Prosthetic limbs and devices benefit from 3D scanning technology. Scans of a patient's residual limb enable prosthetists to design and fabricate comfortable and highly functional prosthetics.
Orthodontics:
In the dental industry, 3D scanning is instrumental in orthodontics. Dentists and orthodontists use it to create accurate digital impressions of a patient's teeth for the fabrication of custom-fit braces, aligners, and other orthodontic devices.
Anatomical Education:
Medical schools and institutions use 3D scans for anatomical education. These scans provide detailed representations of human anatomy, enhancing the learning experience for medical students.
Dental Restorations:
The technology is also crucial in restorative dentistry. It allows for the precise design and manufacturing of dental crowns, bridges, and implants, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal functionality.
Surgical Planning:
Surgeons use 3D scans for preoperative planning. For instance, in neurosurgery, a 3D scan of a patient's brain can provide a detailed map of structures and aid in planning the safest surgical approach.
Wound Assessment:
In wound care, 3D scanning helps clinicians assess the size, depth, and healing progress of wounds. This aids in treatment decisions and monitoring patient progress.
Cancer Treatment:
Radiation oncologists rely on 3D scans to precisely target cancerous tumours during radiation therapy, minimising damage to healthy tissues.
In conclusion, 3D structured light scanners play a transformative role in the medical field by enhancing patient care, enabling customised solutions, and improving the accuracy of medical procedures. Their applications in areas like orthopaedics, dentistry, and surgical planning are paramount in ensuring better outcomes and advancing medical practice.