Production Time and User Satisfaction of 3-Dimensional Printed Orthoses For Chronic Hand Conditions Compared With Conventional Orthoses: A Prospective Case Series.

Objective: Hand orthoses are often prescribed for persons with chronic hand and wrist impairments. This study assessed the feasibility, in terms of production time and user satisfaction, of 3-dimensional printed hand orthoses compared with conventional hand orthoses for this population.

Methods: In this prospective case series, both a conventional hand orthosis and a 3-dimensional printed hand orthosis were manufactured for 10 participants. Production time (in minutes) of each orthosis was recorded. Each orthosis was worn for one week, after which participants completed a self-designed questionnaire on satisfaction, scored on a 5-point Likert scale. Functionality and orthosis preference were also assessed.

Results: The mean (standard deviation (SD)) production time for the 3-dimensional printed orthoses, of 112 (11.0) min, was significantly shorter compared with 239 (29.2) min for the conventional orthoses (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 71-182 min, p = 0.001). Satisfaction scores were similar for both orthoses, except for comfort item "fitting method", which was rated significantly higher for scanning compared with casting (median [IQR] score: 5 [0.0]; 4 [2.0], p = 0.034). Functionality and orthosis preference were rated similar for both orthoses.

Conclusion: As the production time was halved, user satisfaction similar, and scanning experienced as slightly more comfortable than casting, 3-dimensional printed hand orthoses seem feasible and potentially beneficial for use in people with chronic hand and wrist impairments.