Create Orthotics and Prosthetics has developed a new software platform that uses virtual reality and 3-D printing to allow clinicians to design, print and test fit a prosthesis in less than 3 hours, according to a press release.
According to the release, the system is designed to help clinicians transition from traditional fabrication methods to digital technology.
“3-D printing has tremendous potential to improve prosthetic care around the world,” the release noted. “The problem is that prosthetists are accustomed to working with their hands-on plaster models, and not working on a computer with digital models.”
Clinicians who use the system would be able to scan a patient and upload the image to a smartphone, then, using a virtual reality headset, modify a digital mold by hand in the virtual world. Then, the clinician would design a test socket around the digital mold and send it to a 3-D printer for fabrication in less than 3 hours.
“We see that tools such as [virtual reality] are a great way to empower practitioners to use their existing skills and techniques in a new digital platform,” Jeff Erenstone, CPO, Create founder and chief executive officer, said in the release.
According to the release, the technology would allow for more efficient and effective workflow, as well as increased profitability and patient care, all while easing the transition to digital manufacturing.
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Disclosure: Erenstone reports being the founder and chief executive officer of Create. Create’s 3-D printers were designed and manufactured in partnership with Printrbot.
