This remarkable spinal implant was created by an algorithm

This coral-like form is a spinal implant. Created by Californian medical company NuVasive, it is made from titanium and fits precisely between two vertebrae. By mimicking the porousness and stiffness of human bone, it can accelerate bone growth following back surgery. Spinal surgeons typically use implants made from high-performance plastic, because the material is less rigid than metal, yet also porous. But NuVasive's research demonstrated that, with the right design, titanium could be moulded closer to the form and stiffness of human bone – with the added benefit of being stronger than plastic.