Additive Manufacturing in Upper-Limb Prosthetics: A Survey of Stakeholders' Profiles and Expertise

Prosthetic clinics and philanthropic organizations are increasingly using additive manufacturing (AM) to manufacture upper-limb prostheses (ULP). However, a lack of documented use cases and guidelines hinders its broader implementation. Additional data are required to establish recommendations. This exploratory study aims to investigate the sociodemographics and expertise of individuals using AM to manufacture ULP.

An international cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted from October 1st, 2023, to June 30th, 2024. Participants were recruited using non-probability sampling through specialized online channels. We collected sociodemographic data and explored AM ULP manufacturing workflows and outcomes. The survey was available in French, English, and Spanish. Survey data underwent descriptive analyses.

Of 111 participants who started the survey, 61 (55%) completed it. Participants included aid organizations members (40%), prosthetists (37%), and other related professions (23%), with up to 5 years (60%) of AM experience. Active (56%) ULP were predominantly manufactured using Fused Filament Fabrication (84%) with polylactic acid (77%) material. Poor digital customization skills represented the main barrier to 3D production. Functionality and reliability of AM ULP parts represent major limitations in 3D devices studied.

Although additive manufacturing offers significant technological advantages for the production of upper-limb prostheses, human (e.g., digital skills, training) and technical (e.g., mechanical performance of materials) barriers can hinder its implementation and clinical relevance. Further studies, endorsed by official institutions, are warranted to establish guidelines for each subgroup of stakeholders to manufacture optimal ULP using AM.