Biomedical engineering students and veterinary surgeons from UC Davis have developed a unique 3D printed mask intended to serve as a cast for canines with fractured skulls.
A brave 4-month-old puppy defied the odds after enduring severe facial injuries from a dog attack, all thanks to a custom 3D-printed face mask.
Upon her arrival at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in California, Loca presented with serious injuries, including a crushed cheekbone, a broken jaw, and significant damage to her temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Additionally, she had several puncture wounds across her face and neck.
This young Staffordshire Bull Terrier required complex surgery to restore her facial structure. Fortunately, the veterinary team was prepared and had an innovative solution to aid in her recovery.
After undergoing surgery, Loca was fitted with a specially designed face mask, known as the Exo-K9 Exoskeleton, which was custom printed for her by the biomedical engineering students. Their ongoing prototype development made her the ideal first candidate for this innovative approach.
Thanks to advanced 3D printing technology, Loca received a personalized face mask designed from a CT scan. This innovative device played a crucial role in stabilizing her jawbone during her recovery.
“Loca thrived during her three-day stay at the hospital,” noted the UC Davis School. “She quickly started eating soft foods and was content with her pain management. Alongside the Exo-K9, she wore a cushioned neck bandage that helped stabilize her neck injury and limited her movement as she healed.”
“For a month, Loca was restricted from toys, bones, or any hard chew items,” the veterinarians explained. “Her mask and neck collar stayed on at all times, only coming off when she needed to eat or drink. She adhered to a soft food diet until her wounds fully mended.”
Amr Mohsen is a software engineer who traded his keyboard for a leash — at least on weekends. His love for dogs inspired him to share what he learns as a dog owner and enthusiast, bringing a detail-oriented, research-driven perspective to every article he writes. If it’s about dogs, he’s probably already looked it up twice.
