"A Fall Fractured His Skull and Left Him with a Dented Head: A 3-D Printed Skull Transformed Him."
In October 2022, Tucker Marr, then 26, suffered a serious head injury at a wedding reception when he fell down a flight of stairs. The accident resulted in a fractured skull and a subdural hematoma, which is bleeding between the brain and its outer covering. Emergency surgery was required to remove part of his skull to relieve pressure from the swelling brain.
Marr, who was recovering in New York City, faced not only physical challenges but also emotional ones, as he dealt with the noticeable dent left in his head. Despite his progress in regaining strength and cognitive functions, he felt self-conscious and sought a solution to restore his skull's appearance.
New York Neurosurgeons helped Marr by using advanced neuroplastic surgery techniques. Instead of reinserting the removed bone—an approach associated with risks such as infection and absorption—Tuckers Doctors opted for a 3D-printed custom implant. This method avoids complications and provides a precise, natural-looking replacement.
The 3D-printed implant, made of clear acrylic, was successfully placed in Marr’s skull in March 2023. The surgery not only restored Marr’s head shape but also improved his jaw function and balance. Following his recovery, Marr returned to activities like running and hockey with renewed confidence.
A little over a year after the injury, Marr completed the 2023 New York City Marathon in just over three hours. His story highlights the advances in medical technology and the importance of support and resilience in overcoming severe health challenges.
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