3D sea turtles are implanted

A sea turtle is fitted with a 3D print jaw, after being injured by a collision with the propeller part of the ship.

3D implant function for sea turtles

After the accident in the Mediterranean, the jaw of the turtle AKUT3 was separated from the skull. It is inedible and appears to live only in captivity. According to the Telegraph, the turtle was taken to the Research Center for Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Care at Pamukkale University, Turkey .

The implanted turtle is a prosthetic device made from 3D printing technology.(Photo: BTech Innovation)

Experts here have taken care of and fed turtles, but soon they realized that it was more important and necessary to let them survive on their own . They contacted BTech Innovation and found a solution that is a 3D printed jaw from titanium material.

After two months of research and development, the company used CT scans and computer software to create models. From there, they designed replacement prosthetics by applying modern 3D printing technology. The surgery lasts 2.5 hours.

Dr. Anas M. Anderson, who performed the surgery, said the turtle's body does not show any signs of implant removal. If this happens, they will soon bring it to the natural environment.