The future of prosthetics and orthotics: From plaster to 3D

Purpose and goal:

Ortopedteknik at Sahlgrenska University Hospital is facing increasing demand and long waiting times. Traditional plaster methods are inefficient and costly. A growing population and the pandemic have heightened the need for more efficient methods. The solution is digital manufacturing with 3D scanning, CAD, and 3D printing, which improves fit and comfort. The project is carried out in six steps and aims to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the quality of the aids.

Expected results and effects:

Digital manufacturing increases efficiency, reduces costs, and improves the quality of assisitve divicevs. It enables faster production, reduces material waste, and enhances the working environment. For patients, this means quicker delivery and better-fitted devices. The project promotes sustainable growth in Swedish medical technology through innovation and technical development. The collaboration with RISE aims to modernize orthotic and prostetic at Sahlgrenska and provide better care.

Approach and implementation:

The project is carried out in six stages: preparation, purchase of equipment, development of CAD and processes, training of personnel, pilot production and full-scale production. It includes the manufacture of ankle-foot orthoses, prosthetics, standing shells and corsets. These four groups of assitive devices present different challenges in different parts of the manufacturing process. If we find workflows for these, it will be easy to transfer it to all other plastic manufacturing that we do.