3D printing gives "glass bone" patients a rebirth

Osteogenesis imperfecta, commonly referred to as brittle bone disease or "glass bone," is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the skeletal system. It occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 to 15,000 people globally, with an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 individuals affected in China. This condition makes bones extremely fragile and prone to fractures even from minor impacts. Six-year-old Xiaofeng from Guizhou was born with this condition, which left his bones so weak that even the slightest collision could cause a fracture. By the time he was five, his legs had broken more than 20 times, leading to severe deformities. His legs gradually twisted into a cross-shaped position, making it impossible for him to stand. As a result, he spent most of his time sitting on the sofa, watching cartoons, or moving around by climbing with his hands. Despite these challenges, Xiaofeng remained strong and determined. In June of this year, a breakthrough came when the orthopedic team at Shenzhen University Hospital (Hong Kong) used 3D printing technology to create a 1:1 scale model of Xiaofeng’s lower limbs. This allowed them to plan and perform a complex osteotomy surgery, where they straightened his deformed bones using four retractable intramedullary nails. The procedure, which marked the first such case in China, transformed Xiaofeng into an "Iron Man" who could now walk independently. Before the surgery, Xiaofeng’s family had sought help in Chongqing and Zhejiang, but all efforts failed. A charity organization called Porcelain Dolls Rare Care Center eventually connected them with the hospital. The use of 3D printing technology proved crucial in designing a precise surgical plan, as traditional X-rays were not sufficient due to the severity of the deformity. The operation was minimally invasive, and the retractable nails allowed for future growth without the need for repeated surgeries. Dr. Zhang Xiangyu, a deputy consultant at the hospital, explained that these nails can automatically extend as the child grows, eliminating the need for frequent replacements. After one month of rehabilitation, Xiaofeng was able to stand with the support of a standing frame. Though the process was painful, he showed incredible resilience, pushing through the discomfort without crying. He still needs several more months of therapy before he can walk independently, but the progress is encouraging. While the surgery has corrected his leg deformity, Xiaofeng will still be at risk of fractures throughout his life. To reduce the likelihood of further breaks, he receives regular injections of bisphosphonate drugs, which help increase bone density. These treatments cost about 6,000 yuan per year. Although the total cost of the surgery and hospitalization was relatively low—only tens of thousands of yuan—it was still a heavy burden for Xiaofeng’s family from a remote mountainous area in Guizhou. In response, the hospital is working with various NGOs, companies, and chambers of commerce to establish a charity fund aimed at supporting children with rare diseases like osteogenesis imperfecta. Xiaofeng’s story is a powerful example of how innovative medical technologies, combined with compassion and collaboration, can change lives. It offers hope to many families facing similar challenges.

Outdoor Gas Logs

ABLE Outdoor Gas Logs, made of light ceramic raw materials, light weight but strong not easy to break, hand-painted, natural colors and amazing details & realistic shapes, easy turn redness in the fire, can enhance the fireplace flame, all made of inorganic materials, odorless, fire-resistant temperature >900℃, product can be used for a long time, with reasonable price.
ABLE also have advanced molding technology for ceramic log called cast log, it is lighter, stronger, fuller details, and glowing area is larger in the fire.ABLE can supply many kind of log accessories for fireplace, such as pebbles, coals, charcoals, pine cones, maple leaves, aglow ember, top-grade rock wool, stained vermiculite, small coal chips, barks, balls and hollow ball, ceramic pitted pebble and rough Lava rock that won't burst in outdoor fire pit, Pumpkin lamp, Skull and bone for Halloween Decor fire, fireplace log grate etc.
ABLE factory is located in Yixing City, Jiangsu. It is a well-known production base for fire resistant insulation materials and environmental protection products. Yixing is also a city has developed commerce and convenient transportation. Our company sincerely hopes to cooperate with professional customers, and welcome to visit our factory!

Outdoor Gas Logs,Outdoor Gas Log Fireplace,Outdoor Gas Log Set,Gas Fire Pit Log Set

Yixing Able Ceramic Fibre Products Co., Ltd , https://www.ablegaslogs.com