Authors (including presenting author) :
Leung NC(1), Chan KCY(1), Lam CCS(1), Leung AKY(1), Louie FTM(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Occupational Therapy Department, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital
Introduction :
Conventional treatment in occupational therapy for orthopedics patients include hand function training with remedial activities and assistive device to improve functional performance. However, most commercially available products are with fixed design and limited capacity for adjustment. Patients’ needs might not be fully accommodated.
Occupational Therapy Department in Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital used 3D printing technology to develop rehabilitation products for orthopaedics patients. The products include devices for forearm rotation training, finger stretching, finger flexor strengthening and also a chopsticks aid for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Objectives :
1. To improve the treatment effectiveness by tailor-made 3D-printed products
2. To enhance the efficiency and quality of aids and gadgets fabrication with 3D printing technology
Methodology :
Occupational therapists assessed and prescribed treatment for orthopedics patients. Devices were designed and produced using 3D printing technology. Outcomes were measured by hand assessment and patient’s feedback on symptom control and treatment compliance.
Result & Outcome :
3D printing technology showed advantages over traditional rehabilitation. Products were specifically designed to meet individuals’ needs according to their condition. More complex design was achievable to meet the treatment aim. For example, some devices were designed to allow attachment of weights or rubber band. This allowed therapist to adjust the difficulty on training to provide optimal challenge. Besides, devices for home program were intentionally designed to be handy. Patients reported better compliance as it was easier and more convenient to perform home program, resulting in improved hand function. Compared to traditional device, 3D printing technology enabled greater flexibility. Individuals’ needs could be accommodated, according to their biological characteristics and progress.
In addition, man-hour and complexity of craftsmanship skill on fabrication was significantly reduced via 3D printing technology. Products with complex design could be manufactured within hours. For example, the chopsticks aid customized for RA patients was tiny and designed with a movable hinge. 3D printing technology overcame the restriction of traditional process in terms of time and requirement of delicate technique. The consistency and quality of the products were maintained.
3D printing technology enables a more time-efficient and cost-effective treatment modality. Compared to handmade products, 3D printing is an efficient process to manufacture products with higher accuracy. More patient-specific device could be developed through 3D printing in the field of occupational therapy hand rehabilitation in the future.
