3D printing and amputation: a scoping review.

Conclusions: The use of 3D printing technology has a number of benefits for improving the manufacturing process of devices for people with lower and upper limb loss. However, more research and technological advancements are required to fully understand the impact of this technology on patients and how it will affect their daily life. The long-term effects of this technology will also need to be investigated in order to produce a more sustainable alternative to traditional prostheses. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION The use of 3D printing technology for the fabrication of prosthetics for persons with limb-loss has a number of promising features to improve the fitting and customization of these devices for this patient population. Although the costs of producing 3D printed devices is less expensive and burdensome than traditional approaches to manufacturing techniques, there is a need for additional technological advancements to improve the functionality of these devices. Future research needs to adopt more robust research designs with larger sample sizes to provide a better understanding of the viability of using 3D printing technology to improve patient outcomes. PMID: 31418306 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation. Assistive Technology. - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Tags: Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol Source Type: research