3D Printed Upper Limb Prosthetics: Ambition & Reality

Abstract

Background: This study investigates Syrian users' satisfaction with 3d printed upper-limb prostheses for home use, the effects of 3d printed prosthetic models on users' satisfaction, and the abandonment rate of 3d printed upper-limb prostheses between them.

Materials and methods: Three open-source prosthetic hand models (gripper thumb, Unlimbited arm, and Kwawu arm) were printed after 3D scanning and scaling the model to fit the user. Sixteen participants with unilateral upper-limb loss were fitted with one of these prostheses. The Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (Arabic version) was evaluated after three months from receiving the prostheses for home use.

Results: Satisfaction is low (2.75) among 3D printed prosthetic users. Users are not satisfied with appearance, dimension, and comfort. The appearance of 3D printed prosthetic models affect satisfaction and abandonment rate (56.25%)

Conclusions: Research findings can guide future 3d printed prosthetic device development to satisfy user needs and mitigate future upper-limb prosthetic device abandonment.