Opinion/Feedback

Design of these hands (3D prints) are often driven by the desire to have a prosthesis as close as a “real hand”, both from an aesthetic and a functional standpoint.

A new type of hands has been launched in France in September 2015 thanks to 3D printers.

Alongside standard medical prosthesis available with medical prescription and designed by orthoprosthesist, they can also be developed and made in a non-specialised and non-CE approved workshop using 3D printer at lower cost.

Those hands were engineered in the USA with this easy manufacturing process and are now expanding all around the world.

This design better fits with the shape of the malformation like for example for an agenesis or a transcarpal amputation. A 3D printed hand seem to fill a “hole” in current possibilities.

From a functional standpoint, use of this new hand must be studied and improved.

This 3D prosthesis also seems to have a psychological and social impact for children aged from 6- to 8-years-old. The child takes part in its configuration and design. He is asked to draw it, select its colours and to customise it with pictures of his favourites heroes.

Children collaboration and involvement in the hand design with the “maker” enable to better meet specific needs of each child.

Where does the medical staff stand with regard to this “non-medical” product? What potential collaboration with the “makers”?