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Description
The aim of the project is to develop a technology for the use of 3D printed custom-made fixation-extension products in the treatment of acute burns.
Summary of project results
Most burn injury victims start developing scarring or spasticity related complications as early as the first days after burn injury occurred. This develops secondary complications that result in limited or non-existent movement in patients’ extremities. Recovery of such secondary complications is lengthy, complicated, expensive or even impossible. In a lot of cases surgical invasions are needed to achieve any improvements.
In our project we conducted a study and concluded that acute or sub-acute application of orthotic devices may significantly decrease the risk of secondary complications and decrease the degree of negative impacts of such complications. Together with our project partner and outsourced specialists, we agreed on the most common burn areas and selected those for orthosis prototype creation. 3D printed assistive devices are in most cases the only solution applicable as Plaster of Paris casts would soak up all bodily fluids and lose their function, while thermoplastics and cork devices need to be applied warm that is not recommended for burn patients.
We created working prototypes and tested them on real-time voluntary patients to prove usability and functionality effectiveness. We received very positive feedback about the devices from all stakeholders together with ideas for numerous more applications of such assistive devices in acute treatment. The successful tests and positive feedback have led to the registration process of new medical technologies that can potentially allow similar technologies to be introduced across Europe and further. The use of such devices can significantly decrease overall recovery costs for each patient and result in faster recovery times to return the patient to normal everyday life.
Summary of bilateral results
Having a project partner from Norway led to extensive information about most common burn areas and best practices of burn injury treatment as the largest European burn center is located in Bergen, Norway. With the help of our partner we have informed the hospital about our project and gathered valuable feedback that helped us design a process that can be easily implemented in a burn centers’ standard practice.