Cutting-edge 3D scanning technology has improved the quality and potential of prosthetic devices around the world. Incorporating 3D scanning delivers innovative digital limbs that benefit amputees and prosthetists.
Practitioners use the scanned impression of the residual limb of the patient to design prostheses. A hand-held scanner scans and converts the captures into 3D models. The process is quick for both patients and prosthetists, unlike the traditional method of plaster casting.
The scanner takes a three-dimensional image of the residual limb and based on the image, the practitioner first carves a foam model. Later clear plastic is vacuum-formed over the carved foam model to create a diagnostic socket which is fitted onto the residual limb by making a few adjustments. Once both the patient and the practitioner confirm the fit, the socket needs to wait for internal fabrication since it is necessary to confirm the appropriate fitting of the digital socket to ensure the comfort of the wearer.
Prosthetists focus on creating custom prostheses and deploying advanced technology to ensure maximum comfort and care of the patient. 3D scanning technology provides ways to monitor the limb changes of the patient digitally such that the practitioner can document all the changes.
Prosthetists talk to the patients in advance, determine their needs, and empathize with them to help them cope with the sufferings of limb loss. This empathetic process reduces the scanning time which in turn lowers the operational cost making the process economical for both the patient and practitioner.
3D scanning technology is efficient and affordable. It identifies all the changes in body parts and offers a holistic view to practitioners with high accuracy so that they can fabricate the implant precisely and ensure it is the right fit. The prosthetist can share all the necessary information with the patient and use his or her diagnostic skills to support users.
In summary, 3D scanning makes prosthetic services more sustainable and accessible, thereby helping patients better perform daily activities with an artificial limb.