Production Time and User Satisfaction of 3-Dimensional Printed Orthoses For Chronic Hand Conditions Compared With Conventional Orthoses: A Prospective Case Series

Tanja Oud, Yvette Kerkum, Peter de Groot, Harm Gijsbers, Frans Nollet, Merel-Anne Brehm, Tanja Oud, Yvette Kerkum, Peter de Groot, Harm Gijsbers, Frans Nollet, Merel-Anne Brehm

Abstract

Objective: Hand orthoses are often prescribed for persons with chronic hand and wrist impairments. This study assessed the feasibility, in terms of production time and user satisfaction, of 3-dimensional printed hand orthoses compared with conventional hand orthoses for this population.

Methods: In this prospective case series, both a conventional hand orthosis and a 3-dimensional printed hand orthosis were manufactured for 10 participants. Production time (in minutes) of each orthosis was recorded. Each orthosis was worn for one week, after which participants completed a self-designed questionnaire on satisfaction, scored on a 5-point Likert scale. Functionality and orthosis preference were also assessed.

Results: The mean (standard deviation (SD)) production time for the 3-dimensional printed orthoses, of 112 (11.0) min, was significantly shorter compared with 239 (29.2) min for the conventional orthoses (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 71-182 min, p = 0.001). Satisfaction scores were similar for both orthoses, except for comfort item "fitting method", which was rated significantly higher for scanning compared with casting (median [IQR] score: 5 [0.0]; 4 [2.0], p = 0.034). Functionality and orthosis preference were rated similar for both orthoses.

Conclusion: As the production time was halved, user satisfaction similar, and scanning experienced as slightly more comfortable than casting, 3-dimensional printed hand orthoses seem feasible and potentially beneficial for use in people with chronic hand and wrist impairments.

Keywords: feasibility; hand; orthotic device; printing; production time; satisfaction; three-dimensional.

Conflict of interest statement

OIM Orthopedie, the company which employs Yvette Kerkum and Peter de Groot, was included as a partner in the project and provided the 3D-printed orthoses for this study. We wish to confirm that neither the company, nor Yvette Kerkum and Peter de Groot have (financial) benefits related to this project. The authors have no other conflicts of interest to declare.

Journal Compilation © 2021 Foundation of Rehabilitation Information.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Production process of a conventional orthosis. (A) Casting the hand and forearm, (B) adding resin and vacuuming, and (C) the final orthosis.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Production process of the 3-dimensional (3D)-printed orthosis. (A) Scanning the hand and forearm, (B) designing the orthosis based on the digital model of the hand, and (C) the 3D-printed orthosis.

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Source: PubMed

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