Researchers Modify Hot Glue Gun to Repair Broken Bones with Unprecedented Speed and Precision

Modified Hot Glue Gun Repairs Broken Bones with Speed and Precision In a groundbreaking innovation, researchers at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea have successfully modified a hot glue gun to mend broken bones quickly and cheaply. The team, led by Jung Seung Lee, has developed a system that uses the modified hot glue gun to fill voids left by bone damage or tumor removal with a biocompatible material. According to Dr. Lee, "Our goal was to create a solution for emergency trauma surgery where time is of the essence." The researchers achieved this by reducing the operating temperature of the hot glue gun from over 100°C to around 60°C and concocting a biological glue-like material that encourages bone cells to spread. The modified hot glue gun can be applied instantly during a single surgery, eliminating the need for lengthy scanning and fabrication processes required by 3D printing techniques. This innovation has significant implications for trauma surgery, where every minute counts in saving lives. Broken bones often require a material to fill the void left by damage or tumor removal. While bones can repair themselves after small injuries, serious trauma or tumors necessitate filling this space with either a graft or an artificial plug made of a material that encourages bone cells to spread. The use of 3D printing has been explored as a solution for creating perfectly-fitting scaffolds to fill such voids. However, this process requires scanning and remote fabrication, taking at least a week to complete. This is suitable for pre-planned operations but not ideal for emergency situations where immediate action is required. Dr. Lee's team has successfully tested the modified hot glue gun in animal models, demonstrating its effectiveness in repairing bone damage. The researchers are now working on scaling up their innovation for human clinical trials. The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond trauma surgery to other medical fields, such as orthopedic and reconstructive surgery. As Dr. Lee notes, "This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we treat bone injuries and improve patient outcomes." In a statement, Sungkyunkwan University officials expressed their pride in the research team's achievement, highlighting the university's commitment to innovation and collaboration. The development of this modified hot glue gun is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of interdisciplinary research. As scientists continue to push the boundaries of medical technology, we can expect even more innovative solutions to emerge in the near future. Background: Broken bones often require filling voids left by damage or tumor removal. 3D printing has been explored as a solution for creating scaffolds to fill such voids. However, this process requires scanning and remote fabrication, taking at least a week to complete. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Lee's team is now working on scaling up their innovation for human clinical trials. The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond trauma surgery to other medical fields. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we treat bone injuries and improve patient outcomes. Current Status and Next Developments: The modified hot glue gun has been successfully tested in animal models, demonstrating its effectiveness in repairing bone damage. Human clinical trials are expected to begin soon, pending regulatory approval. Further research is needed to refine the technology and explore its applications in various medical fields. *Reporting by Newscientist.*