When 4-month Loca came in with a fractured skull, they created this especially for her. Watch her amazing recovery!
UC Davis biomedical engineering students and veterinary surgeons created a 3D printed mask designed to be used as a cast for a dog’s fractured skull. A 4-month-old puppy survived severe facial injuries after being mauled by a dog thanks partly to a special 3D-printed mask .
Recently, Loca received UC Davis School of medicine in California affected by a crushed cheekbone, a fractured jawbone, and her mandibular joint (TMJ) suffered extensive damage. She also had multiple puncture wounds on her face and neck. The Staffordshire Bull terrier pup would wish a challenging, complex surgery to reconstruct her face. But the veterinary surgeons were up to the task, and had an innovative new tool to assist her recover.
Following her surgery, Loca was fitted for a special mask – a Exo-K9 Exoskeleton – printed only for her by biomedical engineering students at the varsity. The team had been performing on a prototype, so when Local came in to the hospital, she was the right first candidate. Using 3D printer technology, the mask was custom fitted for her (through a CT scan) and helped to stay her jawbone in situ while she healed.
“Loca did extremely well throughout her 3-day hospitalization,” UC Davis School wrote. “She soon began eating soft food and remained comfortable on her pain medications. Additionally to the Exo-K9, Loca was fitted with a padded neck bandage to supply stabilization of her neck fracture and limit her range of mobility during the healing process.” “For subsequent month, Loca wasn't allowed access to any toys, bones, or anything hard to chew,” said the vets. “Her mask and neck collar remained on in the least times except to permit her to eat and drink. She was fed a pap until her injuries healed.” Watch Loca’s remarkable time at the hospital and her visit back to her saviors in the video below.