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3D printing enables advances in medical microsurgery

A research team at Columbia University has used 3D printing to develop a microneedle that opens up new possibilities for the treatment and diagnosis of diseases of the inner ear. The needle, thinner than a human hair, was developed specifically for applications in the cochlea, a difficult-to-access and sensitive part of the inner ear. It could provide the basis for more precise and safer procedures in medical microsurgery.

The cochlea, a spiral-shaped, fluid-filled cavity in the hardest bone of the human body, has been an almost inaccessible region until now. Standard tools often cause damage to the membrane that allows access to the cochlea, which can lead to permanent hearing loss or balance disorders. The new microneedle, developed by engineer Jeffrey Kysar and surgeon Anil Lalwani, uses the precision of 3D printing to provide a minimally invasive solution. By using two-photon lithography, a high-precision printing process, they were able to create an ultra-thin and sharp needle that spares tissue and promotes healing.

The needle has already proven its versatility in animal experiments. It not only enables the safe injection of medication or gene therapies, but also the removal of fluid samples for diagnostics. Initial studies show that the method is reliable and has no negative effects on hearing. The research results could accelerate the development of new therapies for diseases such as Meniere’s disease or genetic hearing loss.

The microneedle is also equipped with a dual lumen that can simultaneously inject and aspirate fluid to avoid pressure changes in the cochlea. This is particularly relevant for future gene therapies that require larger volumes. A startup called Haystack Medical has already been founded to commercialize the technology and develop further partnerships with pharmaceutical companies.

This innovation highlights how 3D printing is advancing medical research and opening up new avenues for treating complex diseases. The researchers hope to be able to use the needle in clinical applications soon, opening the door to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.


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