Vast advances in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) technology as well as material science have stimulated growth and development in orthopaedic prosthetics market. Manufacturers of orthopaedic prosthetics are planning to take 3D-printing to a whole new level by catering to the needs of end-users for daily wear, sports and even models, which can fit in high heels. Advancements in materials and technology have enabled prostheses towards better mimic human form as well as function compared to earlier times. In addition, improvements are made in the sockets as well, with the help of computer-aided fabrication methods, in a bid to improve comfort level and fit for the patient.
3D-Printed Orthopaedic Prosthetics to Revolutionize Knee Surgery
Growing emphasis on the physical sports, increasing number of road accidents and rising demand for replacement of the older orthopaedic prosthetics with durable and lighter materials is likely to compliment the need for customized and 3-D printed orthopaedic prosthetics. In addition, increasing availability of orthopaedic prosthetics that provide enhanced functionality and customization is expected to stimulate demand for orthopaedic prosthetics in the developed markets. For example,
A double amputee and wheelchair-bound Emirati recently benefitted with 3D-printed transtibial orthopaedic prosthetics, first in UAE. The person survived on wooden orthopaedic prosthetics (legs) for more than 15years and now is extremely benefitted with customized orange 3D orthopaedic prosthetics. The all-new 3D-printed orthopaedic prosthetics offers enhanced functionality, comfort levels and stability.
New 3D-printed orthopaedic prosthetics programs are likely to hold potential for improving lives of millions of patients suffering from knee problems. Some organizations in France are taking immense efforts in developing advanced orthopaedic prosthetics knee joints with the help of 3D printing technology, thereby catering to the demand for innovative artificial knee joint designs with development of new approach for production of orthopaedic prosthetics.
Increasing number of baby boomers are expected to drive growth and development of orthopaedic prosthetics in 2019. As in West Africa, a child is benefitted with 3D-printed orthopaedic prosthetics (brace) for right leg that was paralyzed due to a car accident. 3D-printed orthopaedic prosthetics has benefitted the child with fast-track and customization, thereby compensating for paralysis issue. Developing countries where demand is high but social safety net is smaller, these 3D printed orthopaedic prosthetics will witness traction in 2019.
Orthopaedic Prosthetics to Benefit Wild Animals and Birds
Surging number of cases related to chronic conditions and orthopedic injuries resulting in the bone-related deformities stimulates demand for orthopedic prosthetics. Recently, wild animal such as tiger and a bird (hawk) were benefitted with orthopaedic prosthetics, offering them a new life all-together. For example,
An international team of surgeons and veterinary doctors have brought orthopaedic prosthetics usage to a whole new level by developing an artificial paw for an Indian tiger for the very first time. The animal needs orthopaedic prosthetics for its front left paw and requires amputation of swollen bones or nerves for pain relief. Orthopaedic prosthetics will be implanted on the amputed limb in the initial stage of treatment followed by 3D printing design of left limb.
Apart from this, recently a hawk received orthopaedic prosthetics bone anchor that now helps the bird with full grip, thereby enabling its talon in lifting anything.
Enhanced Orthopaedic Prosthetics Design to Eliminate Existing Wear and Tear Challenges
Since the recent past, orthopedic prosthetics market has witnessed notable developments in the production and designing technologies. The new products hold an enhanced level of usability and comfort with growing resistance to tear and wear of the products. Recently, for knee and hip replacements, new prosthesis designs were developed by a new manufacturing cell. Polymotion Hip Resurfacing is the new concept that is likely to cater to the growing challenges faced based on product performance, thereby causing patients with significant issues. The approach to hip resurfacing is expected to provide significant benefits to the surgeons as well as patients that are likely to receive implants at relatively young age. The new R&D cell identified highly cross-linked polyethylene along with porous coating, delivering ideal characteristics for usage in hip resurfacings.
Innovative 3D-Printed Orthopaedic Prosthetics Launched with Medical Certification
A robotics company lately launched world’s first ever medically certified 3D-printed artificial arms beneficial for amputees. The wearable orthopaedic prosthetics is likely to cater to the needs of pediatric landscape, thereby enabling every age of patients benefitting from the custom-fit orthopaedic prosthetic arms. Expandable and compressible sockets in the innovative orthopaedic prosthetics helps in delivering comfortable fit in the varying environmental conditions.
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