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A scoping review of digital fabrication techniques applied to prosthetics and orthotics: Part 1 of 2-Prosthetics (Summary)

Dr Ben Oldfrey, Catherine Holloway, Margaret K Donovan-Hall
Oct. 18, 2024
Global
Research Summaries
Publisher Link Read the research summary

Introduction  


Approximately 0.5% of the global population, or 35-40 million people, require prosthetic, orthotic, and rehabilitation services, a figure projected to double by 2050. Access to these devices remains unequal, especially in low-income countries, where only 11% of those in need receive assistance compared to 64% in high-income regions.

The potential of digital technologies  


Digital fabrication technologies, such as CAD, CAM, and additive manufacturing (AM), are seen as promising solutions to increase accessibility and streamline prosthetic production. These methods reduce manual labor and offer the potential for quicker, more cost-effective fabrication.

Research gaps  


This review highlights significant gaps in the current research on digital prosthetic fabrication:

  • Lack of large-scale studies: few long-term studies exist to validate the effectiveness of digital solutions in real-world settings.
  • Training and workflow issues: insufficient research focuses on training and the varied production workflows, making it hard to standardise methods.
  • Limited evidence on commercial systems: although they are available, their practical outcomes and impact are not well-documented.

Conclusion  


Addressing these gaps through collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and industry is essential for supporting evidence-based decision-making. Improved research and documentation are needed to realise the full potential of digital technologies in global prosthetic care.

 

Red and white page shows a summary of our reserach with a photo of a machine in the top right corner. The text reads, ‘Reserach summary: A scoping review of digital fabrication techniques applied to prosthetics and orthotics: Part 1 of 2-Prosthetics. About: Around 0.5% of the global population requires prosthetic, orthotic, and rehabilitation services, with demand expected to double by 2050. However, access to these devices is limited, especially in low-income countries. Digital technologies, such as CAD, CAM, and additive manufacturing, offer potential solutions to improve accessibility and efficiency in prosthetic fabrication. Highlights: Digital tools have streamlined prosthetic production by replacing manual processes. While these innovations could reduce labour and improve access, our research shows: A lack of large, long-term studies on these technologies. Minimal focus on training for clinicians and on device adjustment methods. Variability in workflows and materials, making conclusions difficult. Despite commercial systems being available, evidence on their real-world effectiveness and use is limited, especially in low-income countries. Conclusion: Research gaps, particularly in long-term evidence and training, hinder the widespread adoption of digital prosthetic technologies. Collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and industry is essential to support evidence-based decision-making and improve access to these innovations.