Ardent & Med Dimensions Commercialize Innovative 3D Joint Model for Veterinarians

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Lexington, KY – April 26th, 2023 – Ardent, a company focused on innovation in pet health has partnered with Med Dimensions to bring to the veterinary market a fully synthetic 3D-printed canine joint model for veterinarian training. The model will replace the traditional practice of training on cadaver patients and allow for advanced training for veterinarians on joint-based treatments. Joint-based therapies such as regenerative medicine treatments including Platelet Rich Plasma, Stem Cell, and Protein based biologics have exploded in popularity for pet parents replacing traditional treatments that mask or block their pet’s pain.

Still, the importance of delivering joint-based biologic treatments in and around the areas of the disease remains vital to long-term healing. Historically, few joint-based therapies existed in companion animal medicine and training was cumbersome and required sensitive logistics in cadaver sourcing. 

Our veterinarian customers are compassionate healers, this innovative training model will allow for joint therapy training to enter the era of innovation. With virtual reality-based medical training now available in human healthcare it’s time we move the needle in animal health. By providing this training model Ardent intends to continue to expand its regenerative medicine procedures to clinics across the world and academic training facilities. Seeking out partnerships with nimble innovators like the Med Dimensions team allows Ardent to accelerate our mission.  

The use of simulation models can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional training methods that may require expensive equipment and materials, as well as the use of real animals, which can be costly and potentially risky. Models can be reused for multiple training sessions, allowing veterinary professionals to practice procedures and skills repeatedly without the need for additional resources- enabling them to develop and refine their skills in a controlled environment, without the pressure and stress that comes with treating real animals. This new injection model has been designed to provide healthcare professionals with a realistic and immersive training experience for administering injections.

The joint injection training tool is designed to simulate the anatomical structure of a joint in animals, providing veterinarians with a realistic experience of administering joint injections. It allows for repeated practice, building confidence and proficiency in the technique. The tool is user-friendly and made of durable materials, ensuring longevity and ease of use. This synthetic joint model is now available for purchase, contact Ardent at 1.800.365.9168 or email info@ardentanimalhealth.com to learn more about adding this to your practice or organization.   

Key Features & Benefits: 

  • Created using imaging to create an anatomically correct model for the canine hip and stifle joint.
  • Designed with durable material for long-term use
  • Ability to order replacement parts 
  • Provides Veterinarians with a tool to practice both hip and stifle joint injections
  • Ardent provides Joint Injection Virtual Training session available with Board Certified Veterinary Surgeon

About Ardent

Ardent is a BreakThru company, a growing family of entrepreneurial businesses with a core mission of improving the lives of people and pets. This core mission has allowed Ardent to develop affordable, innovative treatments for canine cancer and joint disease assisting our veterinarian partners to make a positive impact on pet health. Learn more about Ardent by visiting – https://ardentanimalhealth.com.

About Med Dimensions

Med Dimensions is founded on one simple principle: taking uncertainty out of medical procedures. We believe no patient should be denied access to technologies that improve the surgical experience. We continue to work tirelessly to develop a system which gives any surgeon access to high quality, patient specific models and tools to ensure a faster and safer procedure. By combining our industry expertise with the efficiency of rapid manufacturing technologies, we are proud to offer our customers a cost effective and accuracy driven service. We’ve made it our mission to tailor our services to as diverse a range of customers as possible, human and animal, in order to have an extensive impact. Learn more about Med Dimensions by visiting – https://www.med-dimensions.com.

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Does Surgical Practice Actually Make Perfect?

Surgical practice has been a significant part of modern medicine for centuries. It involves the use of specialized techniques and tools to treat a variety of conditions in humans and animals. Veterinary surgeons play a vital role in surgical practice for animals, performing procedures that improve the quality of life and prolong the lives of pets, livestock, and other animals. This blog post will explore the different aspects of surgical practice as it relates to veterinary surgeons- answering that surgical practice makes (almost) perfect.

Types of Surgeries:

Veterinary surgeons perform a variety of surgeries, ranging from routine spaying and neutering to complex procedures like orthopedic surgeries. Elective surgeries like spaying and neutering are done to prevent reproductive-related issues in pets and reduce the overpopulation of strays. On the other hand, emergency surgeries like gastrointestinal obstruction or a ruptured spleen require immediate attention to save the life of the animal. Reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries are also performed by veterinary surgeons to correct deformities and improve the aesthetics of the animal.

Pre-Surgical Preparations Practice:

Pre-surgical preparation is critical for ensuring the success of the procedure and the safety of the animal. Before any surgery, the animal is thoroughly evaluated by the veterinary surgeon to determine its overall health status. Blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds are done to check for any underlying conditions that may affect the surgery’s outcome. The surgical team also administers anesthesia to keep the animal sedated and pain-free during the procedure. This can be practiced by 3D printing patient specific models, doing dry runs of the surgical set up, and planning the appropriate steps by hand.

The Surgical Procedure:

The veterinary surgeon performs the surgical procedure while the animal is under anesthesia. The type of procedure determines the specific tools and techniques used, which can range from traditional scalpel and forceps to advanced surgical instruments like laparoscopes and arthroscopes. The surgical team closely monitors the animal’s vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure that it remains stable. A surgical procedure can be practiced by various models or cadavers- specific to the anatomic region of the procedure- simulating real life tissues, tendons, and pathology of actual issues needing surgical correction.

Post-Surgical Care:

After the surgery, the animal is closely monitored for any signs of complications or discomfort. The surgical team administers pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection and manage pain. The animal may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or longer, depending on the type of procedure and the extent of the surgery. The veterinary surgeon provides detailed post-operative instructions to the animal’s owner to ensure that the animal recovers fully. Post surgical care can be practiced by practicing suturing with models, using gauze on limbs, and practicing various techniques for wound dressings.

Advancements in Surgical Practice:

Veterinary surgical practice has made significant advancements over the years, with new techniques and tools continually being developed. Minimally invasive surgery is becoming more common in veterinary medicine, which involves making smaller incisions and using specialized instruments to minimize trauma to the animal. The use of lasers in surgery is also becoming more prevalent, which provides greater precision and reduces bleeding.

Challenges in Surgical Practice:

Veterinary surgical practice faces several challenges, including access to specialized equipment and training. Rural areas can lack the resources necessary to provide advanced surgical care, and veterinary surgeons may need to refer animals to larger cities for specialized procedures. Another challenge is ethical considerations, such as deciding when to perform life-saving surgery on an animal that may not have a high quality of life afterward. Additionally, not having the access to practice models can reduce the quality of care that a clinician or technician can provide to animals.

Veterinary surgical practice plays a vital role in maintaining the health and well-being of animals. Veterinary surgeons perform a wide range of surgeries, from routine spaying and neutering to complex orthopedic procedures. With advancements in surgical techniques and tools, veterinary surgical practice continues to evolve and improve. Challenges like access to specialized equipment and ethical considerations require ongoing attention to ensure that animals receive the best possible care. Overall, veterinary surgical practice is an essential part of animal healthcare and an essential service for pet owners and animal lovers alike.

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Why 3D Print For Medical Purposes?

Over the past decade, 3D printing technology has rapidly advanced and become more accessible, leading to its integration in various fields, including medicine. In surgical practice, 3D printing has been gaining popularity due to its ability to create customized, patient-specific anatomical models, surgical instruments, implants, and prosthetics. In this blog, we will explore the use of 3D printing in surgical practice and its benefits.

The Benefits of 3D Printing in Surgical Practice:

  1. Personalized Patient Care: 3D printing allows surgeons to create customized anatomical models based on patient scans, providing a better understanding of the patient’s unique anatomy. This allows surgeons to plan surgeries more accurately and reduces the risk of complications during the surgery.
  2. Surgical Instrumentation: 3D printing has made it possible to create customized surgical instruments, which can be designed to meet specific surgical needs. This has led to improved surgical outcomes and increased safety for patients.
  3. Implants and Prosthetics: 3D printing has revolutionized the production of implants and prosthetics. With the ability to create patient-specific implants and prosthetics, surgeons can improve patient outcomes, reduce surgical time, and decrease the need for additional surgeries.
  4. Education and Training: 3D printing has also been used to improve the education and training of surgical residents and medical students. Anatomical models can be created to simulate surgical procedures, allowing students to practice surgical techniques and gain hands-on experience.

The Use of 3D Printing in Surgical Practice:

  1. Anatomical Models: Anatomical models created using 3D printing have been used to plan surgeries, improve surgical outcomes, and reduce surgical time. A study conducted in 2020 found that the use of 3D-printed anatomical models improved the accuracy of surgical planning and decreased the time required for surgical procedures (1).
  2. Surgical Instrumentation: 3D printing has been used to create customized surgical instruments for various surgical procedures. A study published in 2018 found that customized 3D-printed instruments reduced surgical time and improved surgical outcomes in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery (2).
  3. Implants and Prosthetics: 3D printing has been used to create patient-specific implants and prosthetics. A study published in 2021 found that 3D-printed implants improved surgical outcomes and reduced the risk of complications in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery (3).
  4. Education and Training: Anatomical models created using 3D printing have been used to improve the education and training of surgical residents and medical students. A study published in 2020 found that the use of 3D-printed anatomical models improved the surgical skills of surgical residents (4).

Conclusion:

The use of 3D printing in surgical practice has revolutionized patient care, surgical instrumentation, implants and prosthetics, and education and training. With the ability to create customized patient-specific anatomical models, surgical instruments, implants, and prosthetics, surgeons can improve patient outcomes and reduce surgical time. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, it is likely that its use in surgical practice will become even more widespread.

References:

  1. Zhang, J., Xu, L., Wei, B., & Wang, S. (2020). The application of 3D printing technology in the surgical treatment of thoracic spinal tumors. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 15(1), 1-8.
  2. Shin, M. J., Kim, H. J., Ha, K. Y., Kim, Y. H., Kim, K. N., & Yoo, J. H. (2018). A feasibility study on the clinical application of customized 3D printed instruments in thoracic and lumbar spine
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Why Use Medical Simulation Models?

Medical simulation models are changing the way healthcare professionals are trained. They offer several advantages that improve patient outcomes, decrease errors, and enhance overall care. In this post, we will discuss the benefits of medical simulation models and how they are transforming healthcare education.

Realistic Learning Environments

  1. Medical simulation models provide a realistic learning environment that closely replicates real-life clinical situations. These models offer hands-on training opportunities, allowing healthcare professionals to develop and practice their skills in a controlled and safe environment. Simulation models can be customized to mimic a variety of patient scenarios, providing trainees with the opportunity to practice treating complex medical conditions- without putting patients at risk.

Improved Clinical Outcomes

  1. Simulation models have been shown to improve clinical outcomes by providing healthcare professionals with the opportunity to practice and perfect their skills. Through simulation training, healthcare professionals can identify gaps in their knowledge and develop new techniques to improve their approach to patient care. This leads to improved clinical outcomes, with patients receiving better care and achieving better health outcomes.

Reduced Medical Errors

  1. Medical errors are a significant problem in healthcare, with errors contributing to patient harm, increased healthcare costs, and reduced patient satisfaction. Simulation models offer a safe learning environment that allows healthcare professionals to practice their skills without putting patients at risk. By practicing in a simulated environment, healthcare professionals can identify potential errors and develop strategies to avoid them, reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient safety.

Enhanced Teamwork and Communication

  1. Effective teamwork and communication are essential in healthcare, particularly in high-pressure situations. Simulation models provide a platform for healthcare professionals to practice working together and communicating effectively in a variety of clinical scenarios. By practicing in a simulated environment, healthcare professionals can develop the skills needed to work effectively as a team, improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of errors.

Cost-Effective Training

  1. Training healthcare professionals can be expensive, particularly when training requires expensive equipment and resources. Simulation models offer a cost-effective training solution that allows trainees to practice their skills without requiring expensive equipment or putting patients at risk. Simulation training can be done on-demand, allowing healthcare professionals to fit training around their busy schedules.

In conclusion, medical simulation models are transforming healthcare education, providing healthcare professionals with a safe and realistic learning environment that allows them to develop and practice their skills. Simulation models offer a range of benefits, including improved clinical outcomes, reduced medical errors, enhanced teamwork and communication, and cost-effective training. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, medical simulation models will play an increasingly important role in training the next generation of healthcare professionals- and Med Dimensions will continue to be leading the way in this technology as we develop our models with Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality.

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Introduction to Medical Automation in Grasshopper pt 2

Check out the next video in our series with Vent Creativity. This video covers using Volvox, a Rhino Grasshopper plugin, for visualizing bone density using point clouds.

#innovation#vettech#meddimensions

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Intro to Medical Automation in Grasshopper pt 1

Do you ever wonder how companies can work with medical images in CAD programs? Here is a small peak behind the scenes how we at Med Dimensions are leveraging CAD and automation tools to create the next generation of Innovative Anatomic Solutions.

Huge thanks to Gokce (Gilly) Yildirim from Vent Creativity for showing us the ropes.

#meddimensions#innovation#caddesign

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Will Artificial Intelligence Be Used in Veterinary Medicine?

The use of AI will tremendously impact the industry, especially in Medical Imaging

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way many industries operate, and veterinary medicine is no exception. The use of AI in veterinary medicine has great potential to improve animal health outcomes and assist veterinarians in making more accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions, leading to overall improvement in the way we care for our pets.

One area where AI will be of powerful use in veterinary medicine is in medical imaging. Medical imaging refers to the use of various techniques to visualize the internal structures of animals for diagnostic purposes. These techniques include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans. AI can be used to analyze these images and assist veterinarians in making more efficient and accurate diagnoses.

One way AI is used in medical imaging is through computer-aided diagnosis. Theses systems use machine learning algorithms to analyze medical images and identify potential abnormalities. These systems can help veterinarians detect early signs of disease or injury that may not be visible to the naked eye. For example, a CAD system can analyze an X-ray image of a dog’s chest and identify small lung nodules that may be indicative of cancer.

AI can also be used to assist in the interpretation of more complex imaging studies such as CT and MRI scans. These studies generate large amounts of data that can be time-consuming for veterinarians to analyze manually. AI algorithms can be trained to identify specific structures within these images and provide automated measurements, such as the size of a tumor or the volume of a specific organ. This can save veterinarians time and improve the accuracy of their diagnoses.

AI can also be used to improve the quality of medical images. For example, AI algorithms can be used to reduce image noise and improve image resolution. This can result in clearer images that are easier to interpret, which can lead to more accurate diagnoses.

Since the founding of Med Dimensions, our solutions have been powered by AI and developing self-sufficient technologies for the benefit of veterinarians. Every pre-operative model, surgical cutting guide, and educational phantom that Med Dimensions produces is influenced by an AI system that is getting smarter with each project we complete!

Overall, the use of AI in veterinary medicine is rapidly evolving, and medical imaging is an area where AI can be particularly useful. By analyzing medical images and assisting veterinarians in making more accurate diagnoses, AI has the potential to improve animal health outcomes and save lives. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more applications of AI in veterinary medicine in the future.

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Triple Layer Suturing Pad Product Release

How do you place an ET when you can barely see the epiglottis? It’s not a rhetorical question; you practice!

Med Dimensions is proud to offer 2 versions of high quality suturing pads for the
teaching and learning of surgical suturing and knot tying: MD-E-0033C (3 slit) and
MD-E-0053C (5 slit). Minimum ordering quantity is five (5) units.

For anyone looking to practice intubation on a mesocephalic dog, our clinician designed and validated airway trainer has a hingeable jaw, hard teeth, soft and stretchy tongue, intact nasal cavity, and  soft epiglottis. These models can be used to place an NG tube and has exits for both trachea and epiglotis to show if the ET and NG tubes have been placed correctly.


Product Overview
This product comes in 2 versions: MD-E-0033C and MD-E-0053C.
MD-E-0033C is a triple layer suturing pad, replicating the epidermis, dermis, and
subcutaneous layers with three (3) 100 mm slits for a student to hone their
suturing skills.
MD-E-0053C is a triple layer suturing pad, replicating the epidermis, dermis, and
subcutaneous layers with five (5) slits of varying lengths for a student to hone
their suturing skills.


Key Features & Benefits
Made from a proprietary blend of silicones, these pads provide tactile simulation
similar to real anatomy, and layers are denoted with different colors. These
suturing pads have an embedded mesh to simulate the “pop feeling” associated
with suturing. Each pad arrives in a hard plastic case with non-slip feet to
increase the longevity of the pad. Additionally, the size of the pad is conveniently
low profile, so anyone can easily fit the pad in a backpack or other small bag.

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Canine Arthroscopy Trainer Product Release

Med Dimensions is proud to offer a canine arthroscopy stifle, MD-E-2000AR, with replaceable stifle joints and skin, MD-E-2000AR-1, now available for purchase.

Product Overview

MD-E-2000AR is a training model for teaching and learning arthroscopic procedures and analyzing different pathologies in a stifle, and to replace the use of cadavers in arthroscopy training. It is derived from a CT scan of the left hind limb of a medium sized dog. The model includes the LCL, MCL, Meniscus, Patellar Tendon, tendon of long digital extensor, patella, and fat pad in a replaceable sealed capsule that can be used with fluid.

Key Features & Benefits

Users are able to use all forms of arthroscopic equipment, without damaging the model more than a real stifle. The ability to practice realistic arthroscopy without the need of cadavers. The femur and tibia are 3D printed in resin to increase longevity, and is anchored to a based at the proximal end of the femur. The joint space can show different diseases/pathological issues, meniscal tears, OCD, CCL tears, and more.

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Standard Feline Intubation Trainers Product Release

Med Dimensions is proud to offer a standard feline intubation trainer, MD-E-0002SF, and a standard feline intubation trainer with an NG patch, MD-E-0022SF, now available for purchase

Product Overview

MD-E-0002SF is a model of a cat head, derived from a CT scan with a nasal cavity, teeth, epiglottis, and pharynx. It has user serviceable replacement jaws and tongue, and has calico cat coloring.

MD-E-0022SF is a model including all of the above, with the addition of a user serviceable replacement nose patch to hold suture for NG tube placement.

Key Features & Benefits

This model has a flexible jaw to allow for practice opening the mouth, and removable teeth. The tongue is textured, with clinician validated elasticity, with anatomically accurate landmarks. This model is threaded to fit any standard tripod, or be free standing. Additional custom options include: ability to be split in half for educational purposes, adjustable suction cup mount.

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