If you’ve ever had a cast on an arm or leg, then you’ll know how uncomfortable, awkward and inconvenient they can be. That’s why the NovaCast was created, by Mexican startup Mediprint. It’s a 3D-printed cast which is custom-made for each patient as needed, and that addresses many of the limitations of traditional plaster casts.

Reminiscent of Jake Evill’s Cortex concept, the NovaCast takes the form of an open plastic framework as opposed to an enclosed plaster (or fiberglass) casing.

This allows it to hold broken bones in place, while still letting the injured appendage “breathe.” Additionally, unlike the case with plaster, its plastic construction won’t absorb sweat or other fluids. As a result, skin ulcers and infections are less likely to occur, and itches can more easily be scratched.