Self-Assembled Micro-Organogels Enable 3D Printing of Silicone Structures

For the millions of people every year who have or need medical devices implanted, an advancement in 3D printing technology could enable significantly quicker implantation of devices that are stronger, less expensive, more flexible, and more comfortable than anything currently available. Such devices are molded, which could take days or weeks to create customized parts designed to fit an individual patient. The 3D printing method cuts that time to hours; additionally, small and complex devices such as pressure-sensitive valves, simply cannot be molded in one step.