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Financial support: Internship allowance of 2,500 euros, obtained from the University of Twente for buying materials, ethical approval, and transport.
Authors’ addresses: Merel van der Stelt and Cornelis H. Slump, Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands, E-mails: [email protected] and c.h.s[email protected]. Arico C. Verhulst and Thomas J. J. Maal, 3D Lab, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, E-mails: [email protected] and [email protected]. Jonathan H. Vas Nunes, Throy A. R. Koroma, and Wouter W. E. Nolet, Masanga Medical Research Unit (MMRU), Tonkolili District, Sierra Leone, E-mails: [email protected] and [email protected]. Martin P. Grobusch, Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, E-mail: [email protected]. Lars Brouwers, Department of Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, E-mail: [email protected].
Abstract.
The aim of this feasibility study was to investigate how a 3D printer could be put to its best use in a resource-limited healthcare setting. We have examined whether a 3D printer can contribute to making prostheses, braces, or splints for patients who underwent major limb amputation because of complex wounds, for example, due to burns and subsequent scarring, accidents, conflicts, or congenital abnormalities. During a 3-month period, we investigated the benefits of customized, 3D-printed arm prostheses, splints, and braces in Sierra Leone. Using a handheld 3D scanner and a 3D printer, patient-specific medical aids were designed, manufactured, and tested. Questionnaires regarding patient satisfaction and the functionality of the prostheses were used for a short-term follow-up. Four esthetic prostheses were designed: two prostheses of the hand, one of the forearm, and one of the entire arm. Follow-ups were conducted after 3 to 4 weeks to investigate the quality of the prostheses and to complete a patient questionnaire. Even though the prostheses primarily fulfill esthetic needs, they also exhibit some degree of functionality. In addition, four splints for hands and arms were made to prevent scar contractures after skin transplantation. Finally, a brace for a young boy with kyphoscoliosis was manufactured. The boy has accepted the brace and will be followed up in the months to come. Long-term follow-up is required to prove the sustainability of the 3D-printed brace and prosthetic arms. Further research into how to sustain and refine this project is underway.