A team of engineers from Newport-based Adaptive Engineering Solutions recently came up with a solution to make a real difference to the life of Mimi, the much-loved Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen.
The Newport-based firm was contacted by a fellow Islander whose dog suffers from a unique medical issue – with life or death implications.
After a traumatic birth, heart murmur and overbite, Mimi was then attacked by another dog at only 5 months old, which led to a punctured windpipe (trachea). Amazingly, Mimi survived against the odds with MRSA and 2 throat operations. At one point she was only given a 10% chance of survival.
Her owner, Burno of Dog Training 4 Humans, was determined she was to live a full life despite a permanent tracheostomy, which left a 6cm long hole in her neck which takes her ‘tracky tube’ and allows her to breathe. It requires cleaning 3 or 4 times a day.
There is always the fear that Mimi could suffocate by falling asleep and covering the tracheostomy with a toy or bedding. Or she could pick up an infection from ingress of water, sand, wind or rain which might create a blockage preventing breathing.
Bruno wanted to obtain more breathing tubes and contacted AES in the hope that the company could help. His current tube had broken and was repaired with glue!
Gordon Mucklow, Managing Director of AES, takes up the story:
“As dog owners ourselves, we were motivated to take on the project so Bruno and Mimi visited our offices. One of our engineers was able to take a 3D scan of the ‘old’ breathing tube and create a CAD file ready for printing, all within 24 hours.
“The Faculty of Technology at University of Portsmouth provided a 3D printed sample for Bruno to trial with Mimi to refine the design. They also looked for a more suitable medical grade material from which to print the finalised parts.
“The 3D printed trachea tube has significantly improved Mimi’s quality of life and her life expectancy.
Bruno says:
“It is indeed refreshing to meet a business that goes out of its way to help its customers. Mimi and I are extremely grateful for their assistance, and do not hesitate to recommend their services.”
Wow what a great story