Nikolai Dechev, Kelly Knights, Kim Arklie, Michelle Martindale, Michael Peirone

ACCESSIBLE PROSTHETIC ARMS: VICTORIA HAND PROJECT AND THE IMPACT OF 3D PRINTING

Introduction

Accessible prosthetic arms: victoria hand project and the impact of 3d printing. Explore the Victoria Hand Project's journey providing affordable, customizable 3D printed prosthetic arms globally. Learn about its impact, benefits, and challenges in transforming assistive technology and prosthetic care.

Abstract

Victoria Hand Project (VHP) is a Canadian charity with a mission to provide 3D printed prosthetic arms to people in-need across the world, by partnering with prosthetic care providers. This article explores the journey of VHP, sharing insights, lessons learned, ongoing directions, and the impact of 3D printing on prosthetic care for people with upper-limb amputation. Benefits such as affordability and customization are explored, as well as the challenges encountered, including quality control and the steep learning curve associated with working in the digital 3D space. Through this article, the potential of 3D printing to continue to transform the field of assistive technology and prosthetic and orthotic applications is underscored, especially when used for collaborative, humanitarian initiatives. Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42142/32202 How To Cite: Dechev N, Knights K, Arklie K, Martindale M, Peirone M. Accessible prosthetic arms: Victoria Hand Project and the impact of 3D printing. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.9. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42142 Corresponding Author: Nick Dechev, PhDBiomedical Designs and Systems Laboratory, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8P 5C2 Canada.E-Mail: dechev@uvic.caORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7731-0280

Review

This article offers a insightful look into the Victoria Hand Project (VHP), a compelling initiative that leverages 3D printing technology to provide accessible prosthetic arms to individuals in need globally. The authors effectively frame VHP's journey as a practical case study, providing valuable lessons learned and current directions in the application of additive manufacturing within humanitarian assistive technology. The focus on VHP's collaborative model, partnering with local care providers, underscores a critical component for sustainable and impactful global health interventions. The paper commendably explores the dual nature of 3D printing's impact on prosthetic care, detailing both its significant advantages and inherent challenges. Benefits such as enhanced affordability and customization are highlighted, illustrating how this technology can dramatically improve access to essential devices and optimize user-specific fit and functionality. Equally important, the article addresses practical hurdles, including the complexities of ensuring consistent quality control and the steep learning curve associated with digital 3D design and production, offering a balanced and realistic perspective for those considering similar endeavors. In conclusion, this article serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of 3D printing within the field of assistive technology, particularly when integrated into collaborative and humanitarian initiatives. By openly sharing VHP's experiences, the authors provide practical insights and guidance for organizations and practitioners worldwide who aim to adopt similar innovative approaches in prosthetics and orthotics. It ultimately reinforces how technological advancements, coupled with a strong humanitarian vision, can profoundly enhance the lives of individuals with upper-limb amputation across diverse global settings.

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