The world's first 4D printed 'smart' breast implants for cancer management have been invented by researchers at Queen’s University Belfast.
Researchers in Northern Ireland have said the multipurpose implants are programmed to change size to better fit within the breast cavity, resulting in personalisation to an individual’s body.
The implants also have the ability to release chemotherapy drugs.
The 4D implants can release chemotherapy drugs. Picture by: Queen's University Belfast"The chemotherapeutic molecule will protect the patients from the return of the cancer cells in the area," the university has said.
The research has been published in the journal Science Direct.
The study was conducted by a team from the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University, led by Chair of Biofabrication and Advanced Manufacturing Professor Dimitrios Lamprou.
"This innovative idea started after discussions with doctors and patients, explaining us the challenges in operation, management and everyday life," he said.
The new 4D printed implants. Picture by: Queen's University Belfast"By making, for the first time, these 4D printed implants, the breast cavity after surgery can be covered with an implant that mimics the elasticity of the breast and provide better management of the breast cancer by releasing a chemotherapeutic drug that will 'keep away' the return of the tumour".
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, especially among women.
According to the WHO, more than 2.3 million cases occur each year and around 30% of cases die from the disease - making it the most common cancer among adults.
