A case history of 3d printed orthopedic braces

La Milagrosa orthopedics is a Spanish company that is part of the WASP Med network since 2018. Thanks to the close collaboration between Inma López Hita, head of digital design and additive manufacturing, and WASP Med, it was possible to find new solutions for 3d printing in medical application. La Milagrosa works in the world of 3d printed orthopedic braces since many years: it produces solutions for orthopedics using digital manufacturing. WASP 3D printers, in particular our 3D printer Delta WASP 4070 INDUSTRIAL 4.0, made it possible to have big size printings, creating even very large polypropylene pieces.

3d printed orthopedic corset

3d printed orthopedic corset

An important example is the one of 3D printed orthopedic braces in the correction of vertebral dysmorphism produced with FDM technology. The creation of a printed corset provides an innovative process compared to the traditional manufacturing realized with plaster cast. It follows three steps: a quick and easy 3D scanning, a 3D modeling phase with very large possibilities of customization and finally the 3D polypropylene’s printing.

It is possible to apply this process not only for the resolution of chronic situations but for bone fractures which, usually, would imply a full limb cast.

3d printed orthopedic brace for femur’s fracture

3d printed orthopedic brace for femur's fracture

In this case study a brace has been realized to resolve a femur’s fracture in a newborn: it is the alternative to an invasive plaster which covers from the belt to the feet. This solution offers a greater mobility, which is essential in the early years of growth.

3d printed orthopedic brace for leg

3d printed orthopedic brace for leg

Another application is when there are external fixators and a cast is not possible: thanks to this support the knee is immobilized and it’s possibile to start to place the foot on the ground.

3d printed orthopedic hand devices

3d printed orthopedic hand devices

The 3D printing opens up new scenarios also on hand devices. It is possible to design ad hoc solutions for the individual patient who had interventions on nerves or for cysts removal. With these devices fingers could drive with a gradual use of the force to regain mobility. The components are lightweight, minimally invasive and aesthetically interesting.

3d printed orthopedic hand devices for kid

3d printed orthopedic hand devices for kid

In all the situations, in addition to the benefit for the patient, it is always evident the advantage of digital fabrication technology in terms of process: scanning is immediate and minimally invasive, modeling is highly customizable and there are no materials to be disposed of.

3d printer for orthopedic braces

3d printer for orthopedic braces

3d printed orthopedic braces with Delta WASP 4070 INDUSTRIAL 4.0 reduces costs and returns a robust and reliable finished product, a guarantee given by the characteristics of the machine and by certified materials.