Polymer-Based Additive Manufacturing for Orthotic and Prosthetic Devices: Industry Outlook in Canada

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Rehabilitation Technology

Background:

• Conventional methods for manufacturing orthotic and prosthetic (O&P) devices are long-established.
• Advanced manufacturing techniques, particularly polymer-based additive manufacturing (AM), are emerging as alternatives.
• The O&P field is exploring the potential of AM for device fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a mini-review on recent advancements in polymer-based AM for O&P devices.
• To gather insights from O&P professionals regarding current practices, technologies, and the future of AM in the field.
• To assess key factors including cost, materials, design, fabrication efficiency, structural strength, functionality, and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific literature on AM for O&P devices.
• Conducting 22 interviews with O&P professionals in Canada.
• Focusing interviews on cost, materials, design/fabrication efficiency, structural strength, functionality, and patient satisfaction.

Main Results:

• AM demonstrates lower manufacturing costs compared to conventional methods.
• O&P professionals raised concerns regarding the materials and structural integrity of 3D-printed prosthetic devices.
• Published research indicates comparable functionality and patient satisfaction between AM and conventionally produced O&P devices.
• AM significantly enhances design and fabrication efficiency.
• Slow adoption of 3D printing in the O&P sector is attributed to the absence of qualification standards.

Conclusions:

• Additive manufacturing presents significant advantages in cost reduction and efficiency for O&P devices.
• Addressing material and structural strength concerns is crucial for wider AM adoption.
• Standardization and qualification are necessary to accelerate the integration of 3D printing in the O&P industry.
• Despite challenges, AM holds considerable promise for the future of O&P device manufacturing.