The present and the past
With the 3D Printing Solution being available in the state medical service, the creation of prosthetics (artificial body parts such as limbs) or orthotics (artificial devices such as splints or braces as well as supports for those with diabetic foot) has become smoother.
The step-by- step 3D Printing Solution which we see in operation at the Orthopaedic Workshop involves: The scanning of the relevant limb using a special hand-held 3D Scanner which has a specific software to process the image being captured. The skills and expertise of a Prosthetic & Orthotic Officer are essential to get the right scan-image. (Pic 1) The scanned image is transmitted (outputted) to the computer. (Pic 2)
The designing of the limb or device using special modelling software takes place next on the computer. (Pic 3)
The file or the blue-print which has been designed is prepared for 3D Printing on the computer. (Pic 4)
The final step is the printing on the 3D Printer followed by a fiton. (Pic 5)
Usually what happens when manually crafting a prosthetic is that measurements are taken, followed by a mould being made and rectification through the manufacturing of the outer layer and the inner sheet carried out. Then the kit is assembled and the initial fit- on is carried out, after which the lower part of the limb is created, followed by the final fit- on.
However, there are several challenges on the way, including measuring errors or the blueprint getting damaged or destroyed, leading to the product not meeting expectations, while the whole process is labour-intensive.
“The potential and opportunities in 3D Printing are immense,” says Dr. Samiddhi Samarakoon referring to the designing of customized medical devices; how there can be meticulous surgical planning and equipment modifications; how bio- engineering can be integrated into this field to manufacture advanced limbs; how Sri Lanka can become a resource hub for medical research; how it enables researchers to produce medical education models; and how other hospitals across the country can seek support from the NHSL.
Currently, the NHSL is using plastic printing but hopes to move to metal, titanium and even bio- cell printing in the future, says the Deputy Director, adding that in artificial limb printing at the moment the focus is on printing alone. “We have plans to bring in the bio- engineering aspect to add neuro- sensors.”
Plans are aplenty, with Dr. Samarakoon initiating discussions with the Dean of the Colombo Medical Faculty, Prof. Jennifer Perera, on the potential of her staff sharing their innovative ideas with the NHSL.
“This technology can turn ideas into practical solutions,” adds Dr. Samarakoon.