Rapid fabrication of a digital prosthesis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Prosthodontics
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• Finger prostheses often require replacement due to discoloration after use, impacting patient satisfaction and function.
• Current methods for fabricating new prostheses can be time-consuming and expensive.
• Improving the longevity and aesthetics of silicone finger prostheses is a significant clinical need.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, economical, and cost-effective technique for refabricating discolored finger prostheses.
• To demonstrate a method for duplicating existing prostheses to create new silicone ones.
• To evaluate the clinical fit, marginal adaptation, and aesthetics of prostheses fabricated using the new technique.

Main Methods:

• A technique to duplicate an existing finger prosthesis was developed.
• A wax replica of the patient's current prosthesis was created.
• The wax replica underwent clinical trial and was processed into a new silicone finger prosthesis.

Main Results:

• The novel technique requires fewer clinical and laboratory steps compared to fabricating a new prosthesis from scratch.
• The newly fabricated silicone finger prostheses exhibited comparable fit and marginal adaptation to the original prostheses.
• A significant improvement in the aesthetics of the refabricated finger prostheses was observed.

Conclusions:

• The presented duplication technique offers an economical and efficient solution for refabricating discolored finger prostheses.
• This method successfully restores the fit and marginal adaptation while enhancing the esthetics of silicone finger prostheses.
• The technique provides a viable alternative for improving patient satisfaction with existing finger prostheses.