1
|
Guebeli A, Thieringer F, Honigmann P, Keller M. In-house 3D-printed custom splints for non-operative treatment of distal radial fractures: a randomized controlled trial. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2024; 49:350-358. [PMID: 37458129 DOI: 10.1177/17531934231187554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
We compared patient satisfaction and clinical effectiveness of 3D-printed splints made of photopolymer resin to conventional fibre glass casts in treating distal radial fractures. A total of 39 patients with minimally displaced distal radius fractures were included and randomized. Of them, 20 were immobilized in a fibre glass cast and 19 in a 3D-printed forearm splint. The 3D-printed splints were custom-designed based on forearm surface scanning with a handheld device and printed in-house using digital light processing printing technology. Patient satisfaction and clinical effectiveness were assessed with questionnaires 1 and 6 weeks after the initiation of immobilization. Fracture healing, pain, range of motion, grip strength and the DASH and PRWE scores were assessed up to 1-year follow-up. 3D-printed splints proved to be equally well tolerated by the patients and equally clinically effective as conventional fibre glass casts although there was a higher rate of minor complications. 3D-printed splints present a safe alternative, especially in young, active patients, for non-operative treatment of distal radial fractures.Level of evidence: I.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Guebeli
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Kantonsspital Baselland (Bruderholz, Liestal, Laufen), Bruderholz, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical Additive Manufacturing Research Group (MAM), University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Florian Thieringer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical Additive Manufacturing Research Group (MAM), University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Department of Oral and Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Honigmann
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Kantonsspital Baselland (Bruderholz, Liestal, Laufen), Bruderholz, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical Additive Manufacturing Research Group (MAM), University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marco Keller
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgery, Kantonsspital Baselland (Bruderholz, Liestal, Laufen), Bruderholz, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Medical Additive Manufacturing Research Group (MAM), University of Basel, Allschwil, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xiao YP, Xu HJ, Liao W, Li ZH. Clinical application of instant 3D printed cast versus polymer orthosis in the treatment of colles fracture: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2024; 25:104. [PMID: 38297262 PMCID: PMC10829219 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07212-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The shortcomings of plaster in water resistance, air permeability, skin comfort, fixed stability and weight of wearing are still to be solved. 3D printed cast can overcome the above shortcomings. At present, there is a relative lack of data on the clinical application of 3D printed cast, probably due to its complexity, relatively long operating time, and high price. We aimed to compare and evaluate the short-term effectiveness, safety and advantages of 3D printed wrist cast versus polymer orthosis in the treatment of Colles fracture. METHODS Forty patients with Colles fracture in our hospital from June to December 2022 were selected and divided into an observation group (20 patients, treated with instant 3D printed cast) and a control group (20 cases, treated with polymer orthosis). Both groups treated with manual reduction and external fixation. The visual analogue scale (VAS), immobilization effectiveness and satisfaction scores, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, complications and imaging data were collected and compared before immobilization and at 2, 6 and 12 weeks after the fracture. RESULTS VAS at 2 weeks after the fracture was significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group ( P < 0.05). The immobilization effectiveness and satisfaction scores at 6 weeks after the fracture were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). The DASH scores at 2 and 6 weeks after the fracture were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). There wasn't rupture of the printed cast or orthosis in both groups. There were 2 cases of skin irritation in the control group, and no skin irritation occurred in the observation group. The palmar tilt angle and ulnar inclination angle at 2 weeks and 12 weeks after the fracture were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Both instant 3D printed cast and polymer orthosis are effective in the treatment of Colles fracture. But instant 3D printed cast is better than polymer orthosis in areas of good clinical and imaging performance, and high patient satisfaction and comfort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ping Xiao
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 241, Pengliuyang Road, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Jia Xu
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 241, Pengliuyang Road, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Wen Liao
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 241, Pengliuyang Road, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Zhang-Hua Li
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, No. 241, Pengliuyang Road, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei Province, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sprenkle TP, Chong ACM, Shearer JD, Fisher BT, Sauer BR. A Biomechanical Evaluation of Casting Technique and Cast Core Size Effect. J Pediatr Orthop 2023; 43:e816-e822. [PMID: 37681304 DOI: 10.1097/bpo.0000000000002517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS The goals of this study were to (1) compare the effect of casting technique on biomechanical function with different casting materials and different cast core diameters, and (2) compare the strength of a cast based on the number of layers in relation to the core diameter. METHODS Two standardized cylindrical cast model sizes were used to simulate forearm and short leg casts (core diameter: 60 mm, 100 mm) with 2 different casting techniques (non-smoothing vs. smoothing with lamination), utilizing 2 casting materials [fiberglass and Plaster of Paris (POP)]. Each cast was created using 3 different layers (Fiberglass: 2 to 4 layers; POP: 3 to 5 layers). Ultimate load-to-failure and flexural rigidity were analyzed through cyclic 4-point bend testing. RESULTS The biomechanical comparison between forearm and short leg casts were significantly different regardless of the same number of layers for both casting materials and between 2 casting techniques. Increased cast thickness significantly increased the ultimate load-to-failure and bending strength. An increased core diameter size significantly decreased the cast's ultimate load-to-failure (fiberglass: 50% to 108%; POP: 10% to 93%) and bending strength (fiberglass: 17% to 35%; POP: 37% to 49%). Casting technique with smoothing with lamination technique had a negative biomechanical effect on POP and a minimal effect on fiberglass. CONCLUSION The number of layers to apply for a cast should be based on the size of the extremity. Smoothing and lamination technique did not significantly improve the cast mechanical behavior. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The findings of this study provide valuable evidence, analysis, and supplementary knowledge that helps guide physicians in proper casting technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trenton P Sprenkle
- Department of Graduate Medical Education-Sanford Health, Route, Fargo
- University of North Dakota, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Alexander C M Chong
- Department of Graduate Medical Education-Sanford Health, Route, Fargo
- University of North Dakota, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Jordan D Shearer
- University of North Dakota, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Brandon T Fisher
- Department of Graduate Medical Education-Sanford Health, Route, Fargo
- University of North Dakota, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| | - Brian R Sauer
- Department of Graduate Medical Education-Sanford Health, Route, Fargo
- University of North Dakota, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Grand Forks, ND
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Popescu D, Baciu F, Vlăsceanu D, Marinescu R, Lăptoiu D. Investigations on the Fatigue Behavior of 3D-Printed and Thermoformed Polylactic Acid Wrist-Hand Orthoses. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2737. [PMID: 37376386 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Additively manufactured wrist-hand orthoses (3DP-WHOs) offer several advantages over traditional splints and casts, but their development based on a patient's 3D scans currently requires advanced engineering skills, while also recording long manufacturing times as they are commonly built in a vertical position. A proposed alternative involves 3D printing the orthoses as a flat model base and then thermoforming them to fit the patient's forearm. This manufacturing approach is faster, cost-effective and allows easier integration of flexible sensors as an example. However, it is unknown whether these flat-shaped 3DP-WHOs offer similar mechanical resistance as the 3D-printed hand-shaped orthoses, with a lack of research in this area being revealed by the literature review. To evaluate the mechanical properties of 3DP-WHOs produced using the two approaches, three-point bending tests and flexural fatigue tests were conducted. The results showed that both types of orthoses had similar stiffness up to 50 N, but the vertically built orthoses failed at a maximum load of 120 N, while the thermoformed orthoses could withstand up to 300 N with no damages observed. The integrity of the thermoformed orthoses was maintained after 2000 cycles at 0.5 Hz and ±2.5 mm displacement. It was observed that the minimum force occurring during fatigue tests was approximately -95 N. After 1100-1200 cycles, it reached -110 N and remained constant. The outcomes of this study are expected to enhance the trust that hand therapists, orthopedists, and patients have in using thermoformable 3DP-WHOs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Popescu
- Department of Robotics and Production Systems, Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Baciu
- Department of Strength of Materials, Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Daniel Vlăsceanu
- Department of Strength of Materials, Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Rodica Marinescu
- Department of Orthopedics, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dan Lăptoiu
- Department of Orthopedics, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Orthosis Material Properties: A Mechanical Testing Evaluation of Fiberglass, Plaster, and Three-Dimensional Printed Splints. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 151:179e-181e. [PMID: 36576844 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000009752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
6
|
Van Lieshout EMM, Verhofstad MHJ, Beens LM, Van Bekkum JJJ, Willemsen F, Janzing HMJ, Van Vledder MG. Personalized 3D-printed forearm braces as an alternative for a traditional plaster cast or splint; A systematic review. Injury 2022; 53 Suppl 3:S47-S52. [PMID: 35858868 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2022.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Forearm fractures such as distal radius fractures are traditionally treated with a plaster or synthetic cast. Patients commonly report inconvenience of the cast, skin problems, and occasionally radial sensory nerve numbness. A known issue with casting is that the rate of secondary dislocation is high. As an alternative to casts, personalized 3D-printed braces are increasingly used. This review provides an inventory of current developments and experience with 3D-printed forearm braces. Main focus was on the design requirements, materials used, technical requirements, and preclinical and clinical results. Review of 12 studies showed that all printed braces used an open design. Fused Deposition Modelling is most commonly used 3D-printing technique (seven studies) and polylactic acid is the most commonly used material (five studies). Clinical evaluation was done in six studies, mainly involving distal radius fractures, and generally showed a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction with the printed brace. Whether or not the results obtained with 3D-printed braces are superior to results after casting requires further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther M M Van Lieshout
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Michael H J Verhofstad
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Linda M Beens
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Julienne J J Van Bekkum
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fleur Willemsen
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mark G Van Vledder
- Trauma Research Unit Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Schlégl ÁT, Told R, Kardos K, Szőke A, Ujfalusi Z, Maróti P. Evaluation and Comparison of Traditional Plaster and Fiberglass Casts with 3D-Printed PLA and PLA–CaCO3 Composite Splints for Bone-Fracture Management. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14173571. [PMID: 36080645 PMCID: PMC9460134 DOI: 10.3390/polym14173571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone fractures pose a serious challenge for the healthcare system worldwide. A total of 17.5% of these fractures occur in the distal radius. Traditional cast materials commonly used for treatment have certain disadvantages, including a lack of mechanical and water resistance, poor hygiene, and odors. Three-dimensional printing is a dynamically developing technology which can potentially replace the traditional casts. The aim of the study was to examine and compare the traditional materials (plaster cast and fiberglass cast) with Polylactic Acid (PLA) and PLA–CaCO3 composite materials printed using Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) technology and to produce a usable cast of each material. The materials were characterized by tensile, flexural, Charpy impact, Shore D hardness, flexural fatigue, and variable load cyclic tests, as well as an absorbed water test. In addition, cost-effectiveness was evaluated and compared. The measured values for tensile strength and flexural strength decreased with the increase in CaCO3 concentration. In the fatigue tests, the plaster cast and the fiberglass cast did not show normal fatigue curves; only the 3D-printed materials did so. Variable load cyclic tests showed that traditional casts cannot hold the same load at the same deflection after a higher load has been used. During these tests, the plaster cast had the biggest relative change (−79.7%), compared with −4.8 % for the 3D-printed materials. The results clearly showed that 3D-printed materials perform better in both static and dynamic mechanical tests; therefore, 3D printing could be a good alternative to customized splints and casts in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ádám Tibor Schlégl
- Medical Skills Education and Innovation Centre, Medcal School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Street 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Department of Orthopaedics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Akác Street 1, H-7632 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Roland Told
- 3D Printing and Visualization Centre, University of Pécs, Boszorkány Road 2, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kinga Kardos
- 3D Printing and Visualization Centre, University of Pécs, Boszorkány Road 2, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - András Szőke
- 3D Printing and Visualization Centre, University of Pécs, Boszorkány Road 2, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Ujfalusi
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Street 12, H-7624 Pecs, Hungary
| | - Péter Maróti
- Medical Skills Education and Innovation Centre, Medcal School, University of Pécs, Szigeti Street 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- 3D Printing and Visualization Centre, University of Pécs, Boszorkány Road 2, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Factor S, Atlan F, Pritsch T, Rumack N, Golden E, Dadia S. In-hospital production of 3D-printed casts for non-displaced wrist and hand fractures. SICOT J 2022; 8:20. [PMID: 35608413 PMCID: PMC9128606 DOI: 10.1051/sicotj/2022021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the clinical feasibility and results of a multidisciplinary workflow, employing rapid three-dimensional (3D) scanning and modeling software along with a high-speed printer, for in-hospital production of patient-specific 3D-printed casts, for the treatment of non-displaced wrist and hand fractures. Methods: Consenting adult patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) due to wrist or hand fractures between January and February 2021 were prospectively enrolled. The study participants underwent conversion of the standard plaster of Paris cast to a 3D-printed cast one week after the ED visit, and follow-up examinations were performed around two, six, and twelve weeks later. The primary objective was to examine the clinical feasibility in terms of complexity and length of the overall procedure. Secondary outcomes were patient-reported impressions and radiological results. Results: Twenty patients (16 males, mean age 37 ± 13.1 years) were included. The entire printing workflow took a mean of 161 ± 8 min. All patients demonstrated clinical improvement and fracture union at final follow-up, with no pressure sores or loss of reduction. Patient-reported comfort and satisfaction rates were excellent. The mean Visual Analog Scale was 0.9 ± 1.1 and 0.6 ± 1, and the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 18.7 ± 9.5 and 7.6 ± 7.6 at 2 and 6 weeks after application of the 3D-printed cast, respectively. Conclusion: The in-hospital workflow was feasible and efficient, with excellent clinical and radiographic results and high patient satisfaction and comfort rates. Our medical center now routinely provides this cast option for non-displaced wrist and hand fractures. Level of evidence: IV, Therapeutic Study
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shai Factor
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Franck Atlan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Tamir Pritsch
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Netta Rumack
- Surgical Innovation and 3D Printing Unit, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Eran Golden
- Surgical Innovation and 3D Printing Unit, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Solomon Dadia
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Tel Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel - Surgical Innovation and 3D Printing Unit, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St., Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Overview of In-Hospital 3D Printing and Practical Applications in Hand Surgery. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:4650245. [PMID: 33855068 PMCID: PMC8019389 DOI: 10.1155/2021/4650245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is spreading in hand surgery. There is an increasing number of practical applications like the training of junior hand surgeons, patient education, preoperative planning, and 3D printing of customized casts, customized surgical guides, implants, and prostheses. Some high-quality studies highlight the value for surgeons, but there is still a lack of high-level evidence for improved clinical endpoints and hence actual impact on the patient's outcome. This article provides an overview over the latest applications of 3D printing in hand surgery and practical experience of implementing them into daily clinical routine.
Collapse
|
10
|
Sedigh A, Kachooei AR, Beredjiklian PK, Vaccaro AR, Rivlin M. Safety and Efficacy of Casting during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparison of the Mechanical Properties of Polymers Used for 3D Printing to Conventional Materials Used for the Generation of Orthopaedic Orthoses. THE ARCHIVES OF BONE AND JOINT SURGERY 2020; 8:281-285. [PMID: 32733983 DOI: 10.22038/abjs.2020.44038.2204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
To reduce the risk of spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the emerging protocols are advising for less physician-patient contact, shortening the contact time, and keeping a safe distance. It is recommended that unnecessary casting be avoided in the events that alternative methods can be applied such as in stable ankle fractures, and hindfoot/midfoot/forefoot injuries. Fiberglass casts are suboptimal because they require a follow up for cast removal while a conventional plaster cast is amenable to self-removal by submerging in water and cutting the cotton bandages with scissors. At present, only fiberglass casts are widely available to allow waterproof casting. To reduce the contact time during casting, a custom-made 3D printed casts/splints can be ordered remotely which reduces the number of visits and shortens the contact time while it allows for self-removal by the patient. The cast is printed after the limb is 3D scanned in 5-10 seconds using the commercially available 3D scanners. In contrast to the conventional casting, a 3D printed cast/splint is washable which is an advantage during an infectious crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashkan Sedigh
- Orthopedic Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Hand Surgery Division, Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amir R Kachooei
- Orthopedic Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Hand Surgery Division, Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pedro K Beredjiklian
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Chief of Hand Surgery Division, Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alexander R Vaccaro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael Rivlin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Hand Surgery Division, Rothman Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|