World's Smallest 3D Bioprinter
A flexible device, inspired by an elephant's trunk, could help surgeons repair vocal cords by delivering healing hydrogels after surgery.
Surgery is sometimes necessary to remove growths or cysts from vocal cords.
The device sports a 2.7-millimetre-wide printhead at the end of a long, flexible arm that moves like an elephant's trunk.
Researchers have created and tested this device, which might one day assist physicians.
Author's summary: Tiny 3D bioprinter aids vocal cord repair.