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3D Systems Virtual Reality Training Module: World's First

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In a bid to expand its healthcare portfolio, 3D Systems Corporation (DDD - Free Report) has developed a virtual reality training module for Laparoscopic Transabdominal Preperitoneal (TAPP) Inguinal Hernia Repair. Leveraging on core competence in healthcare solutions applications is one of the five strategies adopted by the company to maximize growth and the recent launch bears testimony to that.

TAPP Inguinal Hernia Repair Module

With this launch, 3D System aims to improve medical training which is a crucial determinant of patient outcome. This module will be available on the company’s LAP Mentor laparoscopic surgical simulator and RobotiX Mentor simulator for robotic procedures. The virtual reality TAPP Inguinal Hernia Repair training module provides a realistic anatomical environment for medical personnel, allowing them to perfect their skills ahead of real life surgeries.

Meanwhile, the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) points out that even though MIS Laparoscopic TAPP technique is a far superior process than open surgeries, the latter is preferred on account of steep learning curve and other formidable challenges associated with the former.  3D Systems’ TAPP Inguinal Hernia Repair training module comes into play here as it is designed to eliminate such challenges and enhance the skill of medical personnel.

Healthcare Portfolio

Over the past couple of years, 3D Systems has been systematically expanding its healthcare product suite to include concepts ranging from educational training modules to simulation and from customized pre-operative surgical planning applications to 3D printed tools and implants. During the first quarter of 2016, revenues from healthcare and related applications increased 12% year over year, driven by the company’s extensive offerings as well as expansion by clients who print medical and dental devices. Particularly, precision healthcare offerings like printers and materials, surgical simulation and planning and printing of devices and tools contributed strongly to growth.

Why a Zacks Rank #5?

Unfavorable broader market conditions over the past few quarters have significantly hit the financial performance of 3D Systems. Also, prolonged sluggishness in the industry has resulted in dismal earnings performances in three of the past four quarters. During first-quarter 2016, 3D printing products and service sales were undermined by adverse market conditions that impacted customers' capital investment cycles and demand across all geographies. Also, intensifying competition and currency fluctuations are adding to the company’s woes, without any immediate respite in sight.

3D Systems currently carries a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). Some better-ranked stocks in the broader computer & technology sector include Key Tronic Corp. (KTCC - Free Report) , TransAct Technologies Incorporated TACT and Zix Corporation . Each of these stocks holds a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

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