Highlights
- ●A systematic review was performed on studies utilizing 3D printed orthoses for musculoskeletal conditions of the elbow, wrist, hand and digits in clinical settings.
- ●The 10 studies included in this systematic review report on actual patient use of 3D printed orthoses.
- ●The 3D printing process of orthoses for the upper extremity remains complex and under-utilized.
- ●There is a need for more clinical trials to study the benefits of 3D printed orthoses compared with custom made low temperature thermoplastic orthoses for patients in the hand therapy setting.
Abstract
Study Design
Systematic Review
Introduction
3D printed orthoses are emerging as a possible option in the field of hand therapy
to fabricate conventional casts and orthoses. It is unknown how this technology is
currently being used to treat upper extremity musculoskeletal conditions, and if 3D
orthoses are comparable to custom- made low temperature thermoplastic orthoses fabricated
by hand therapists.
Purpose of the Study
The primary aim of this review was to investigate the utilization, effectiveness and
feasibility of 3D printed technology to manufacture custom orthoses for musculoskeletal
conditions of the upper extremity.
Methods
Studies describing 3D printed orthoses or casts used in treatment with patients were
included following a comprehensive literature search using CINAHL, PubMed, Medline,
ProQuest, and EBSCO databases. The selected studies had to address musculoskeletal
conditions of the elbow, wrist, hand and/or digits that would typically be immobilized
with a cast or brace or orthotic or orthosis.
Results
Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Study designs included case studies, case
series, and 1 randomized clinical trial. 3D printed orthoses/casts appear to be comfortable,
provide adequate immobilization, and have pleasing aesthetics. However, expensive
equipment, lack of appropriate software and scanning tools and lack of highly skilled
clinicians are all factors preventing the implementation of 3D printed orthoses into
current clinical practice.
Discussion
3D printed orthoses appear to be effective at immobilization of a limb, aesthetically
pleasing, and utilize lightweight and well -ventilated materials. However, the feasibility
of implementing 3D printing technology in hand therapy settings remains challenging
in part due to the resources required.
Conclusions
While 3D printing shows promise, the high cost of equipment, lack of training and
skill of clinicians and the long time required for production are all factors that
need to be improved to make 3D printing a viable option in the hand therapy setting.
Keywords
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JHT Read for Credit
Quiz: # 912
Record your answers on the Return Answer Form found on the tear-out coupon at the back of this issue or to complete online and use a credit card, go to JHTReadforCredit.com. There is only one best answer for each question.
- # 1.The study design is
- a.RCTs
- b.case series
- c.systematic review
- d.prospective cohort
- a.
- # 2.The 3D printed orthotics were an alternative for casts whose purpose was
- a.immobilization
- b.restoration of ROM
- c.esthetics
- d.protection
- a.
- # 3.The study investigates the ___________ of 3D printed orthotics in hand therapy
- a.feasibility
- b.utilization
- c.effectiveness
- d.all of the above
- a.
- # 4.How many articles were found that were RCTs
- a.5
- b.3
- c.1
- d.0
- a.
- # 5.There are significant hurdles that will need to be crossed before 3D printed orthotics become standard in hand therapy practices
- a.not true
- b.true
- a.
When submitting to the HTCC for re-certification, please batch your JHT RFC certificates in groups of 3 or more to get full credit.
Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 21, 2021
Accepted:
October 2,
2021
Received in revised form:
October 2,
2021
Received:
May 11,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
