UNO Launches $8M Center for 3D-Printed Prosthetics and Surgical Tools

The University of Nebraska at Omaha officially opened the Nebraska Center for 3D Innovation on August 15. The center, known as NE3D, has an $8 million budget from the National Science Foundation and a clear goal: turn 3D-printed designs into real medical devices that reach patients quickly and cheaply.

The program focuses on three areas. The first is prosthetics. A team led by biomechanics researcher Jorge Zuniga already produces 3D-printed devices for roughly $200 to $250 each. Commercial prosthetics with similar function run $10,000 to $20,000. Battery-powered models that stimulate muscles can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Insurance typically covers one replacement per year, which is not enough for growing children. NE3D plans to absorb those material costs rather than bill patients.

The second focus is antimicrobial materials. The center will test filaments and resins that inhibit bacterial growth on printed surfaces, a feature that matters for both prosthetic sockets and surgical guides that sit inside the body.

The third track is anatomical models for surgical planning. Surgeons currently practice on real patients. NE3D wants to change that by printing lifelike replicas of bones, joints, and organs that residents can cut, drill, and suture before entering the operating room. Zuniga said the models could shorten operating time and reduce errors, especially for complex cases.

The center is housed in UNO's Biomechanics Research Building during a $17.1 million expansion. Partners include the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Children's Hospital & Medical Center, Clarkson College, and Metropolitan Community College. Hiring is expected to start once the facility is fully operational.

NE3D's four-year plan includes soft robotic components for more responsive prosthetics, expanded antimicrobial testing, and improved anatomical model realism. The center also plans to offer training and design support so other organizations can adopt the same additive manufacturing workflows.