An interdisciplinary methodology for the comparative evaluation of splinting materials (orthotics, thermoplastics, clinical research)

A standardized assessment of moldability parameters of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing

Objective

To establish parameters for standardized assessment of the moldability of thermoplastic materials used in orthotic manufacturing and to develop tests for quantification of moldability parameters by simulating the demands of clinical practice, in order to enable accurate and controlled analysis of material properties.

Primary outcome measurements

Two commercially available materials were submitted to tests for standardized measurement of moldability. Results were correlated with manufacturer information. Moldability assessment was based on two parameters (conformation and fit), expressed as percentages.

Results

Tests, standardized molding procedures and measurements were described. Quantitative data (conformation and fit expressed in percentages) were derived from a pilot study comparing Aquaplast-T™ and Ezeform™. Findings of that study revealed that Aquaplast-T™ is more moldable than Ezeform™ and support technical information provided by the manufacturer.

Conclusions

The assessment method described enabled objective and repeatable measurement of the moldability of materials used in orthotic manufacturing and represent a significant advancement in comparative analysis of materials, with potential positive impacts on therapeutic procedures and clinical decision-making. Tests developed in this study can be used to quantify data provided by manufacturers in order to allow their use by researchers and professionals in rehabilitation.

Clinical Results of a Comparative Evaluation of Splinting Materials

A comprehensive evaluation which includes a clinical assessment by occupational therapists and students, as well as patient users, along with a laboratory testing program has been conducted on six low-temperature thermoplastic splinting materials. After constructing a palmar working splint or palmar resting splint, the therapists and students completed questionnaires. The patients receiving those splints constructed by the therapists completed separate questionnaires after wearing the splint for one week and four weeks. The analysis of the responses revealed a series of 'desirable characteristics' for a preferred material. Although a satisfactory splint could be constructed from any of the materials, the concensus among the therapists and students showed that only two materials best satisfied the 'desirable characteristics' criteria. In general, the patient responses indicated very little difference among the materials, with very few reported problems of cracking, breaking, tearing, bending, discolouration or stretching. A series of laboratory tests that should provide a profile for a prospective or existing material, has also been selected.