AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), Bhopal, has taken a significant step towards advanced medical technology. The urology team, led by Dr. Ketan Mehra, is now utilizing 3D printing technology to perform complex kidney surgeries with greater precision and safety.
This technology enables doctors to create a precise 3D model of a patient's kidney before surgery, significantly aiding in surgical planning.
How does this technology work?
The core of this project is the creation of patient-specific 3D printed models. These models are generated using the patient's CT or MRI scans, clearly showing the kidney's structure, the location of stones, and the positions of surrounding organs. This helps doctors understand the surgical approach and potential risks.
This 3D printing technology can be revolutionary, especially for procedures like PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy), which are generally quite complex.
Funding and Equipment
The Madhya Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (MPCST) has provided a research grant of ₹9 lakh for this project. ₹7 lakh will be used to purchase a resin-based high-resolution 3D printer, while the remaining ₹2 lakh will fund a Junior Research Fellow's salary for two years. Dr. Vikram Vatty from the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery department at AIIMS Bhopal has been included as a co-principal investigator in this project.
Expected Transformation in the Medical Field
AIIMS Director, Dr. Ajay Singh, says this initiative will promote precision surgery within the healthcare system and propel India to new heights in health technology. He also stated that 3D printing technology will not only simplify complex surgeries but also accelerate patient recovery and reduce hospital stays.
Future Prospects
In the future, this technology can be extended beyond kidney surgeries to encompass cardiac, brain, liver, and orthopedic procedures. Furthermore, it can serve as an excellent learning tool for medical students, allowing them to practice on realistic models instead of relying solely on theoretical studies. This initiative by AIIMS Bhopal exemplifies the impactful combination of medical innovation and technology in India, setting a precedent that may inspire other institutions in the coming years.
