![[APHA]](/images/logo_apha.svg){kind=logo}
A hospital's innovative new laboratory is using 3D printing technology to help cancer patients recover from head and neck reconstructive surgery.
The first-of-its-kind Integrated Prosthetics and Reconstruction (IPR) Laboratory officially opened at Sydney's Chris O'Brien Lifehouse in April 2024.
It aims to make reconstructive surgery more affordable and accessible for patients by designing, developing, manufacturing and commercialising products for use in craniomaxillofacial procedures.
The newly-built facility was supported by the Walker Family Foundation – the charity founded by the late billionaire philanthropist Lang Walker.
"At Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of innovation and patient care, with a patient-focused outcome always top of mind," said the private hospital's CEO, Professor Michael Boyer AM.
"We're so grateful for the support of the Walker Family Foundation that allows us to bring personalised reconstruction to our patients, and eventually to patients all across Australia."
Mr Walker helped fund the construction of Chris O'Brien Lifehouse over a decade ago and was a key donor until he passed away aged 78, less than three months before the laboratory opened.
"Lang had an incredible passion for the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse and he was humbled by the profound impact it has had on countless patients and their families," said Walker Corporation's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, David Gallant.
"The IPR laboratory will make an incredible difference to those navigating their cancer journey, and the Walker Family Foundation is proud to continue its support for innovative and cutting-edge medical technology to improve health outcomes for all Australians."
Professor Jonathan Clark AM, the hospital's Director of Head and Neck Research, said patients could expect major benefits from the new facility.
"Head and neck cancers and the associated treatment can't be hidden," said Prof Clark, also the Walker Family Foundation's Chair in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstructive Surgery.
"The opening of the IPR lab means that people navigating their already difficult cancer journey can rest assured we are best placed to help them recover to the best standard possible."
Read more: Award-winning program cuts opioid use
Read more: Chris O'Brien Lifehouse cancer patients 'live longer'
Next News And Innovation:
15/5/2024 New trial should improve access to mental health care
Previous News And Innovation:
15/5/2024 Improving outcomes for at-risk stroke patients