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A New Dimension in Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Albert Woo from Brown University’s Warren Alpert Medical School highlights the marvels of medical 3D printing.

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Cover image from Sustainably Speaking

EP 13

Sustainably Speaking: A New Dimension in Reconstructive Surgery | America’s Plastic Makers®

0:00
24:07

On this episode of Sustainably Speaking, we explore the marvels of 3D reconstructive modeling, which uses printed plastic to create custom implants and devices that help improve patient outcomes. Medical imaging has come a long way very quickly, providing not just bi-dimensional options, but also innovative three-dimensional ways to observe a patient’s body. 3D printing is also a more sustainable method of modelling as it creates less waste and uses materials more efficiently.

Host Mia Quinn is joined by Dr. Albert Woo, a reconstructive surgeon on the cutting edge of this technology, and guest co-host Joshua Baca, vice president of plastics for the American Chemistry Council. They’ll discuss 3D printing for patients and surgeons, advancements in the technology, and its role in creating a more sustainable future.

Guest Bios

  • Dr. Albert Woo, Chief of Pediatric Plastic Surgery and Director of the Lifespan 3D Printing Lab, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University

    Albert S. Woo, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in the treatment of cleft and craniofacial anomalies. This work has led to a particular interest in three dimensional imaging and printing of complex surgical models. He is an Associate Professor of Surgery, Pediatrics and Neurosurgery at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and serves as the Chief of the Division of Pediatric Plastic Surgery, Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Center at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, and Director of the Lifespan 3D Printing Laboratory.

    Dr. Woo currently is a member of numerous societies including the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association, the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including recognition by Best Doctors in America and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors.

  • Joshua Baca, Vice President, Plastics Division, American Chemistry Council

    As Vice President of ACC’s Plastics Division, Joshua oversees strategic programs to advance a science-based policy agenda, national outreach, and sustainability initiatives on behalf of America’s leading plastics makers. He encourages better understanding of plastics’ importance to areas such as automotive, building and construction, and packaging, and about innovations that are helping to address some of our world’s greatest sustainability challenges. Joshua also leads industry initiatives and fosters dialogue around helping to end plastic waste by creating a more circular economy.

    He previously led public affairs at a large organization, where he oversaw the launch of a new plastics sustainability initiative and helped advance community-based recycling projects.

    He began his career working on Capitol Hill. Joshua has an MA in Government and Political Communications from The Johns Hopkins University and a BA in Political Science from Texas Tech University.

  • Mia Quinn, Senior Director, Plastics Division at American Chemistry Council

    Mia Quinn leads efforts to communicate the plastics industry’s major sustainability initiatives. She works to bring together experts to share insights in key areas of sustainability, including public policy, product design, recycling, and infrastructure.

    She is passionate about collaboration, clear communications, and engaging audiences to learn more about and advocate for innovation and modern solutions for our communities and our country.

    Mia has a degree in political science from Washington University in St. Louis. She grew up in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado and is a lifelong Denver Broncos fan. She lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two sons.

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