Print a limb: encouraging results using 3D printed artificial limbs

Lack of access to assistive devices

In many low-income and middle-income countries, only 5%-15%[1] of people who require assistive devices, including artificial limbs, have access to them. In areas that are remote or dangerous, specialized health professionals can be scarce and materials expensive. Poorly made or unadjusted artificial limbs can make life uncomfortable for patients by causing skin sores, pressure wounds and muscle fatigue.

3D printing technology

Handicap International has been testing 3D printing technology to see if it could offer a solution to some of these problems. The trial method uses a small, lightweight 3D scanner to create a digital mold of the amputated limb. The mold can then be adapted according to the patients’ needs using computer modeling software before being sent to a 3D printer. The printer creates thousands of layers of thermoplastic to produce a bespoke socket that corresponds perfectly to the shape of the patient’s amputated limb.

Results so far

With just 19 participants in the first phase of trials, it is still early days, but the preliminary findings show that the 3D printed sockets are a safe and effective alternative to current socket designs. The process saves time for medical professionals and allows for a lot of input from the patient.

Importantly, the scanning materials required are portable and relatively simple to use. It is hoped that this will allow us to reach patients in remote or dangerous places. Much further research is required before this treatment option can be offered to patients.

Isabelle Urseau, Handicap International’s head of rehabilitation, is planning the next steps:

“Using the lessons learnt, we are now excited to move on to phase 2 of the research. These trials will involve more patients and different locations to thoroughly test our methods. 3D printing is unlikely to become the only way of providing artificial limbs but we think it could be a great option in certain circumstances.”

The project is a partnership between Handicap International, the University of Strathclyde, and two industrial companies; ProsFit Technologies and Proteor SAS. The results of phase 1 of the project will be presented at the International Society for Artificial Limbs and Braces World Congress 2017 in Cape Town, which runs from the 8^th to 11^th May.