Australian receives 3D-printed shinbone in world-first surgery

Surgeons at Brisbane's Princess Alexandra Hospital have performed world-first surgery and transplanted a 3D printed shinbone into the leg of a man who faced losing his leg. Two weeks ago, the 3D printed tibia was transplanted into the Reuben Lichter’s right leg. It was wrapped in leg tissue and blood vessels from both his legs. It was the first stage in a nine-month journey, at least, to grow new bone in his right shin and allow Mr Lichter to support his weight and walk again. The successful transplant opened the door for the successful transplanting of major bones in trauma accidents throughout the world.