When you read a lot today about science and technology, you need to keep an eye on the calendar. It often feels like April Fool’s Day, so much of the latest news seems outlandish. But it’s true that a woman from the Netherlands just had her skull replaced with a plastic one created by a 3-D printer. From Nicholas Tufnell at Wired UK:

“The skull was made specifically for the patient using an unspecified durable plastic. Since the operation, the patient has gained her sight back entirely, is symptom-free and back to work. It is not known whether the plastic will require replacing at a later date or if it will last a lifetime.

The lead surgeon had previous experience with 3D reconstructions of skulls, but such a large implant had never been accomplished before. ‘It is almost impossible to see that she’s ever had surgery,’ said Dr Verweij in the university’s official statement.

It is hoped this technique can also be used for patients with other bone disorders or to repair severely damaged skulls after an accident or tumour.”