POPULAR SCIENCE reports large artificial bones (such as a femur) are rare and could allow a surgeon to save a limb, but not without the possibility of major complications.

HSS hip and knee surgeon Michael M. Alexiades, MD, noted, “They [artificial bones] do exist, and they don’t necessarily need to be 3D-printed,” as surgeons can adjust implants manufactured by medical device companies to fit the patient.

Read the article at Popsci.com.