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Motor vehicle drivers

Revolutionary 3D Printing Technology Rebuilds Face of Drunk Driver Victim

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Dave Richards, a 75-year-old cyclist, suffered horrific injuries after being hit by a drunk driver in July 2021. He had parts of his upper face, nose, and neck torn from his skull, leaving him with third-degree burns and multiple broken ribs. After two years of recovery, Richards received a 3D prosthesis that fits the space on his face and mimics his hair, eye, and skin color, thanks to the advanced technology of the Bristol 3D Medical Centre. The centre, the first of its kind in the UK, uses 3D scanning, design, and printing to provide state-of-the-art digital technology and specialist reconstructive expertise to trauma patients.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dave Richards, a 75-year-old cyclist, suffered severe facial injuries, including third-degree burns and multiple broken ribs, after being hit by a drunk driver in July 2021.
  • Richards was referred to the Bristol 3D Medical Centre, the first of its kind in the UK, which uses 3D scanning, design, and printing to provide advanced technology and expertise for reconstructive surgery.
  • The centre created a 3D prosthesis that precisely fits Richards' face, mimicking his hair, eye, and skin color, giving him greater confidence and improving his quality of life.
  • The prosthesis was part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also included a large orbital prosthesis and neck scar splints to help soften scar tissue.
  • The man who caused the accident was sentenced to three years and banned from driving for seven years.

Statistics:

  • 75 years old: the age of cyclist Dave Richards at the time of the accident.
  • 3 years: the sentence imposed on the drunk driver responsible for the accident.
  • 7 years: the duration of the driving ban for the drunk driver.
  • July 2021: the month and year when the accident occurred.
  • 2 years: the length of time Richards spent recovering from his injuries before receiving the 3D prosthesis.

Sources:

  • BBC News - "Man has half of his face rebuilt using 3D printing" (no date provided)
  • Bristol Post - "Dave Richards: The cyclist who has half his face rebuilt using 3D printing" (no date provided)

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