The NHS Trust recently announced the addition of a new digital clinical and manufacturing lab at Kingston Hospital, making the NHS Trust one of the first of only a small number of hospitals in the country to provide this kind of service.

This lab presents the hospital with the opportunity to provide patients with onsite digital customised anatomical models and medical devices, through using 3D biomedical design and printing in a new facility. This innovative new lab has been funded by the Kingston Hospital Charity and is located in the hospital’s Princess Alexandra Wing.

The new device uses high-precision scanners, specialised design software and medical grade 3D printers to manufacture its products. These products include equipment such as hearing aids, orthodontic appliances for patients and surgical equipment for doctors. To celebrate this advancement Kingston Hospital held an official opening event which presented staff and guests with the incredible opportunity to see the lab in use. This included watching a live demonstration of the scanning, design and 3D printing process. This presentation highlighted the benefits these innovations will provide, including more efficient and comfortable care, a necessary decrease in the number of hospital appointments and better results for patients.

The Orthodontic Consultant and Project Lead, Dr Chris Donaldson, commented, "We are really proud of the new facility which is already benefiting patients and allowing us to 3D print medical and dental devices such as facial surgery planning aids, orthodontic appliances and surgical cutting guides rapidly, with reduced waste and increased efficiency. These techniques and tools will become essential to the NHS of the future."

The Director of Kingston Hospital Charity, Rob Aldous, said, "It is fantastic to see the 3D digital design and manufacturing unit up and running for patients. We were delighted to fund this important project, which will benefit local people for many years to come. Congratulations to Chris and to the team on the opening of the unit."