3D Printed Prosthetics for Children

So why can’t we “print” a new limb? As far-fetched as this sounds, it is now a reality with 3D printers and it is changing the lives of so many children. The recent innovations in the 3D printer world have given hope to many children and inspired many scientists.

While many children in Australia are born without limbs each year, according to the US Center for Disease Control, about 2,500 babies, just in the United States, are born with some type of limb defect and that number increases in areas where medical care is limited. Further, the CDC states “The overall goal for treatment of limb reduction defects is to provide the child with a limb that has proper function and appearance.” This is what the 3D printers and scientists are working to achieve.

This new technology has significantly shortened the process of receiving a prosthetic from months to just a couple of days. Likewise, the price of an ordinary prosthetic could run upwards of $50,000, but with the 3D printing, that cost ranges from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars. A significant difference in price also may have insurance companies agreeing, or at least reconsidering, to fund them. Insurance companies are leery of paying tens of thousands for a child’s prosthetics that will need to be changed every year, due to growth. However, with much a substantial savings, insurance companies are reassessing their stance. Additionally, the economic effects on the family having to travel long distances for fitting, subsequent replacements, and creating custom made limb prosthetics may soon be gone as well. More and more local hospitals are assuming the possibility of being able to print a prosthetic limb that is affordable and less evasive.

Now, several non-profits are jumping on board and providing children with a life that they never knew existed. Scientists and volunteers are collaborating on taking the 3D printable prosthetics to kids in over 50 countries Free or at a very low cost. Some of the wrist or hand prosthetics can be made for as little as US$50. Although it is not as strong as other materials, when a child outgrows or breaks the plastic, another can be make for sometimes under a hundred dollars. Professor Jon Schull, who runs such as nonprofit with volunteers, states that with programs such as these, he is proving that there are plenty of humanitarians ready to lend their services. Shiners Hospital doctors are also excited that this 3D printing is enabling them to customize fitting for each child. Just imagine being able to ride a bike, catch a ball, even carry a lunch tray as never before can be accomplished.

As 3D printers advance, compatibility with new materials such as lightweight titanium is helping to increase durability and strength. By being able to incorporate multi materials into 3D methods, more natural feeling and working prosthetics are in the near future.

The integration of 3D printers in the medical field will soon change everyday lives with minimal cost and efforts, but could mean the world to a child.

For more on what Shriners Hospital for Children is doing, pop over and take a look at their site: http://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/news/SL-3DProstheticArm