Development of Local Material 3D Printing Cosmetic Cover in the Endoskeletal Transtibial Prosthesis: Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the utility and suitability of various additive manufacturing outputs (filaments) for use as a prosthetic protective and cosmetic covering. The rationale for doing so is to utilize the technology as a means for augmenting current prosthetic cosmetic cover treatments. Two different filaments were utilized for prosthesis cover production: ABS-M30 and a locally developed material named HIPS_PTTGC’s filament. As ABS-M30 is a widely available material, this study would like to compare the 3D printing process duration between the HIPS_PTTGC and ABS-M30 filaments.

Materials and Methods: This study involved three unilateral transtibial prosthesis users and began with a 3D scan of their current prostheses using a 3D scanner, followed by a printing process. After that, the 3D covers were provided to each participant. Each participant performed the 6-minute walk test, Stair Climb test, and Quest survey for outcome measurement.

Results: Manufacturing time of HIIP_PTTGC’s filament spent longer time than ABS-M30. For outcome measurement; 6 MWT and SCT were good minimal detectible change. And QUEST 2.0 all participants were satisfied by the devices, but durability’s score were less.

Conclusion: The results showed that each of the printed devices evidenced deformation after functional outcome measures. The materials were unable to tolerate ground reaction forces during static standing and dynamic walking exercises. Participants were satisfied with the devices but not with their durability. Although the 3D covers were not able to withstand loading in their current iteration, future prints can consider the ground reaction forces (GRF) of human walking to understand 3D printed devices with utility in prosthetics.