Three-Dimensional Printing of Prosthetic Hands for Children

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Pediatric Prosthetics
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Children with congenital or traumatic hand reductions have distinct prosthetic requirements.
• Conventional prosthetics, while advancing, present challenges for pediatric users due to increasing complexity, weight, and cost.
• Pediatric psychosocial development and physical growth necessitate adaptable and cost-effective prosthetic solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of three-dimensional (3D) printing for creating pediatric prosthetic hands.
• To identify simpler, more suitable alternatives to complex conventional prosthetics for children.
• To evaluate 3D printing as a method for fabricating rugged, lightweight, and low-cost assistive hands.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing three-dimensional printing technology for fabrication.
• Focusing on design principles that prioritize simplicity, durability, and ease of replacement.
• Assessing the suitability of 3D printed prosthetics for pediatric users with hand differences.

Main Results:

• Three-dimensional printing enables the creation of assistive hands that are rugged and lightweight.
• The fabrication process allows for easy replacement of prosthetic devices as children grow.
• 3D printed prosthetic hands offer a very low-cost alternative to conventional options.

Conclusions:

• Simpler solutions, such as those offered by 3D printing, are better suited for pediatric prosthetic needs.
• 3D printing technology provides a viable and effective method for producing customized, affordable, and functional assistive hands for children.
• This approach addresses the challenges posed by children's growth and evolving needs in prosthetic care.