We described 3D printing technique and automated design software and clinical results after the application of this AFO to a patient with a foot drop. After acquiring a 3D modelling file of a patient's lower leg with peroneal neuropathy by a 3D scanner, we loaded this file on the automated orthosis software and created the “STL” file. The designed AFO was printed using a fused filament fabrication type 3D printer, and a mechanical stress test was performed. The patient alternated between the 3D-printed and conventional AFOs for 2 months. There was no crack or damage, and the shape and stiffness of the AFO did not change after the durability test. The gait speed increased after wearing the conventional AFO (56.5 cm/sec) and 3D-printed AFO (56.5 cm/sec) compared to that without an AFO (42.2 cm/sec). The patient was more satisfied with the 3D-printed AFO than the conventional AFO in terms of the weight and ease of use. The 3D-printed AFO exhibited similar functionality as the conventional AFO and considerably satisfied the patient in terms of the weight and ease of use. We suggest the possibility of the individualized AFO with 3D printing techniques and automated design software.
A three-dimensional-printed wrist orthosis can be a substitute for a conventional ready-made wrist orthosis for patients with wrist pain with more satisfaction.
The Jebsen-Taylor hand function test and Box and Block Test scores improved after application of the prosthesis. Most Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology results were "very satisfied," and most Orthotics and Prosthetics Users' Survey results were "very easy." Preparing the prosthesis made by three-dimensional scanner and three-dimensional printer was faster and cheaper than preparing a conventional prosthesis. Clinical relevance Using three-dimensional scanning and printing technique, we can easily produce specifically shaped finger prostheses for specific movements in amputated patients with low cost.
-The purpose of this study is to produce personalized toe spreaders for hallux valgus through 3D printing and 3D scanning techniques. Eight patients (14 feet) with hallux valgus participated in our study and were scanned with the 3D scanner. After designing toe spreaders with the modelling program, we made toe spreaders with 3D printing technique in a selective laser sintering method. Hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were compared before and after wearing. Changes of HVA and IMA after wearing the toe spreader were significantly different (P<0.001 and P=0.034). Total amount of time for making a customized toe spreader was approximately 7 hours and total price was approximately 50 dollars. Personalized toe spreaders for hallux valgus made with 3D scanning and 3D printing techniques improved HVA and IMA. This suggests the possibility of the commercial use of 3D printed customized toe spreaders for hallux valgus.
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