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3D4MD finger splint
Dr Wong’s company, 3D4MD successfully completed its first off-earth print on January 11th – two mallet finger splint models.
Not satisfied with the success of 3D printing on planet Earth, innovators have long been exploring its capabilities in outer space.
Since the turn of the year, this geographical transition of 3D printing machines has gathered pace.
Just three weeks ago, Made in Space, a pioneering company for the production of 3D-printed parts for use in outer space, agreed a partnership with Axiom Space, a leading developer of the world’s first privately-owned space station. Together, the two companies have been focusing on the logistical elements of in-space manufacturing.
Friend of the founders of Made in Space, and doctor and founder of a healthcare innovation company in her own right, Dr Julielynn Wong has delivered a ‘ground-breaking’ concept which will see 3D printers used on the International Space Station to help treat any injuries astronauts may suffer. The 3D printers will allow the astronauts to make personalised medical supplies on demand during long space missions. Dr Wong’s company, 3D4MD successfully completed its first off-earth print on January 11th – two mallet finger splint models, designed to keep the finger straight, rather than bend inwards toward the palm.
“It’s like having a 3D photocopier,” Dr Wong said. “We take a laser scan stored from the fitting process for space suit gloves, use free software to create a digital model of a custom-fitted finger splint, uplink that digital file to the space station and 3D print it in space.”
3D4MD finger splint
Research indicates the best way to treat mallet finger problems is to use custom-fitted, hand-made splints.
The 3D4MD team designed one splint with a star pattern to represent its production in space. Both splint models were designed to be worn without a Velcro strap in case this item is not readily available during a space mission on Earth.
Mallet finger injuries are fairly common across the world. Improperly treating these injuries can lead to permanent hand deformities. Research indicates the best way to treat mallet finger problems is to use custom-fitted, hand-made splints. Since there is a global shortage of skilled healthcare workers who can make these custom-fitted splints, particularly in rural areas, 3D4MD is hoping its 3D printing concept could be utilised here, as well as in space.
Dr Wong’s global team of Medical Makers is developing a way to use cell phones to scan patients and 3D print custom mallet splints on-site using recycled plastic and solar-powered 3D printers. Reducing costs and saving time, Dr Wong hopes it could also save populates of lesser developed countries from a lot of pain.
“This will not only save time and money for patients, but could benefit the 45% of the world’s population who live in rural areas and lack access to medical care,” Wong explained.
3D4MD believe its innovative project displays the capabilities of modern technology to advance space medicine, and how it can even enhance healthcare on Earth too.
