Hand function and quality of life with a 3D-printed prosthesis: A case report.

Abstract

Background: People throughout the world have amputations but cannot obtain prosthetic devices. 3D-printing can be a cost-effective tool to create prostheses.

Purpose: The study's purpose is to examine the impact that a 3D-printed prosthetic hand has on function and quality of life.

Study design: This case report collected data from a single subject.

Methods: For function and quality of life, the Orthotics Prosthetics Users Surveys (OPUS) Upper Extremity Functional Status (UEFS) and the OPUS Health-Related Quality of Life Index (HRQOL) were completed before and after receiving a 3D-printed prosthetic hand.

Results: The UEFS pre-test score was 31, while post-test was 50. This 19-point difference exceeds the minimal detectable change (MDC) of 14.8, denoting a positive change. The HRQOL pre-test score was 58 and the post-test was 61. Since the MDC for this survey is 7.4, there is no substantial improvement.

Conclusions: Function improved for this participant by nearly two standard deviations, while quality of life was maintained. 3D-printing is a viable, adaptable, and cost-effective alternative that aided the participant's function. This technology in the clinic can meet unique client needs when considering financial limitations or multiple prostheses for growing children.