3D printers may one day become a permanent fixture of the operating theatre after scientists showed they could print bone-like structures containing living cells.

Using a 3D-printer that deploys a special ink made up of calcium phosphate, the scientists developed a new technique, known as ceramic omnidirectional bioprinting in cell-suspensions (COBICS), enabling them to print bone-like structures that harden in a matter of minutes when placed in water.

While the idea of 3D-printing bone-mimicking structures is not new, this is the first time such material can be created at room temperature — complete with living cells — and without harsh chemicals or radiation, says Dr Iman Roohani from UNSW’s School of Chemistry.

«This is a unique technology that can produce structures that closely mimic bone tissue,» he says.

«It could be used in clinical applications where there is a large demand for in situ repair of bone defects such as those caused by trauma, cancer, or where a big chunk of tissue is resected.»

Associate Professor Kristopher Kilian who co-developed the breakthrough technology with Dr Roohani says the fact that living cells can be part of the 3D-printed structure, together with its portability, make it a big advance on current state-of-the-art technology.

Story Source: Materials provided by University of New South Wales. Original written by Lachlan Gilbert. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.