In India alone, there’s a growing need for over half a million prosthetics annually. This demand stems from accidents in construction sites, agriculture, sports mishaps, and among individuals born with physical disabilities. With many of these individuals coming from disadvantaged backgrounds, 3D printing offers a life-changing solution due to its cost-effectiveness, time efficiency, and convenience.
The Traditional Prosthetic Making Process: Creating a conventional prosthetic is a time-intensive process, typically taking 3-6 weeks. It involves taking a mould of the residual limb, crafting the prosthetic socket and limb separately using various materials, and then assembling them. Adjustments are made based on patient feedback, which can prolong the process.
Why Reverse Engineering with 3D Printing is Promising for Prosthetics:
Time Efficiency: 3D printing with reverse engineering streamlines the process. A patient’s residual limb is scanned using DICOM images, converted into a 3D printable file format, and then printed using carbon fibre. Unlike traditional methods that take weeks or months, a 3D printed prosthetic can be made in just a couple of days.
Cost Efficiency: Reverse engineering and 3D printing significantly reduce costs, making prosthetics more affordable. Traditional prosthetics from top hospitals can cost lakhs, while 3D printed ones are a fraction of that cost. This affordability is beneficial not only to economically disadvantaged individuals but also to children who may require frequent replacements due to growth.
Comfort: 3D scanning and reverse engineering allow for customization, reducing pressure and discomfort. Iterative design enables the creation of prosthetics that offer the best possible fit ergonomically, enhancing comfort for the wearer.
The Impact
Hospitals and initiatives worldwide, like the ‘Hasta Centre for Congenital Hand Differences’ in Manipal, are utilizing 3D printed prosthetics to better serve patients. NGOs and startups are also leveraging 3D printing to provide convenient and affordable solutions.
At Tesseract, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of 3D printing in prosthetics first-hand. Collaborating with medical experts, we strive to empower individuals with precision-crafted prosthetics. For inquiries regarding prosthetics, reach out to us at contact@onetesseract.com, and we’ll be glad to assist!
