A 17‑year‑old Iowa teen survived a catastrophic gunshot injury thanks to an AI‑designed, 3D‑printed jaw implant that transformed a normally grueling surgery. Instead of bending a generic plate during the operation, surgeons used AI software to map her shattered jaw from CT scans and generate a custom titanium implant. Printed in Florida and flown to Des Moines within days, the plate fit perfectly, cutting surgery time in half and reducing risk. Three months later, her recovery is strong, with the implant fusing to her bone. The case highlights how AI and 3D printing are reshaping trauma care with unprecedented precision.
by rrollins
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