Additive manufacturing in limb prosthetics and orthotics: the past, present and future of 3D printing orthopedic assistive devices

Document Type

Syllabus

Publication Date

1-1-2024

Abstract

3D printing technologies offer a broad spectrum of solutions to design and manufacture orthopedic assistive devices, including orthoses, limb prosthetics, or even complex robotic therapeutic systems. In the case of prototyping, modeling, or small-series production, 3D printing has unmatched benefits in terms of flexibility, cost-effectivity, and customization. According to the principles of prosthetics and orthotics, all assistive devices must fulfill individual criteria and needs, therefore additive manufacturing technologies could effectively enhance the overall outcome of rehabilitation processes. The following chapter introduces the most frequently used 3D printing technologies in limb prosthetics and orthotics, like FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication), SLA (Stereolithography), and SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), it also summarizes the current knowledge on the used materials with special focus on thermoplastic polymers, resins and “smart materials,” with functions, like electrical conductivity, antibacterial and antiviral or even shape memory effects. With 3D printing, upper- and lower-limb esthetic and EMG and EEG-controlled functional prosthetics devices have been produced, to increase the AoDL (activities of daily living) of the recipients. Research groups also successfully developed unique, custom-made orthoses models and assistive robotic devices, some of which can help in the active, everyday rehabilitation process of poststroke or SCI (spinal cord injury) patients. With the rapid development of additive manufacturing, new devices, new materials, and new concepts pave the way for innovative approaches in the field. 4D printing using shape memory polymers reveals the possibility of designing and manufacturing moving, grasping, and load-bearing parts that can be controlled by external stimuli, and it can contribute to the development of artificial muscles as well, which can be a game-changer in medical robotic applications.

Identifier

85193388265 (Scopus)

ISBN

[9780323953832, 9780323953849]

Publication Title

Medical Additive Manufacturing: Concepts and Fundamentals

External Full Text Location

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95383-2.00028-7

First Page

179

Last Page

207

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