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Three-dimensional Printed Customized Adjustable Mallet Finger Splint: A Cheap, Effective, and Comfortable
Theodora Papavasiliou1, Rushabh K Shah1, Stelios Chatzimichail2
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Guys' and St Thomas' Hospitals, Lambeth, London SE1 7EH, UK.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|April 28, 2021
Summary
Individualized 3D printed splints offer a novel, low-cost solution for mallet finger deformity, improving patient comfort and compliance compared to traditional methods. This approach enhances treatment outcomes for this common fingertip injury.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Mallet finger deformity is a frequent and disabling fingertip injury, comprising 10% of all tendon and ligament injuries.
- It results from disruption of the terminal extensor mechanism, leading to pain, swelling, and significant morbidity if untreated.
- Current nonoperative management relies on joint immobilization, often with prefabricated or thermoplastic splints, which can cause discomfort and skin issues, impacting patient compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate the efficacy of individualized 3D printed splints for managing mallet finger deformity.
- To compare the benefits of 3D printed splints against traditional splinting methods.
Main Methods:
- Design and manufacture of patient-specific 3D printed splints for mallet finger.
- Application and assessment of these individualized splints in clinical practice.
Main Results:
- 3D printed splints offer comparable advantages to traditional thermoplastic splints.
- Key benefits include low cost, ease of manufacturing, and environmental friendliness.
- These splints address issues of comfort and skin complications associated with conventional splints, potentially improving patient compliance.
Conclusions:
- Individualized 3D printed splints represent a promising advancement in the nonoperative treatment of mallet finger deformity.
- This technology provides a cost-effective, comfortable, and compliant alternative to traditional splinting methods.
- 3D printing offers a sustainable and patient-centered approach to managing this common hand injury.
