What is 3D printing about in O&P?

QUESTION: 

I keep hearing about 3D printing in orthotics and prosthetics. How does that work?  - Paul W.

ANSWER:

Paul, what a great question! This is a very exciting time for 3D printing in Orthotics and Prosthetics and one of our favorite subjects.

The start of 3D printing
Most people think that 3D printing is relatively new. The truth is that it was started in 1980 when Hideo Kodama first described a layer by layer approach to manufacturing. About four years later a French team filed a patent for the stereolithography process (later to be re-named as 3D printing). They later abandoned their efforts, saying they just couldn’t find a viable market for this process. At about the same time, Chuck Hull filed his own patent for a stereolithography fabrication system. Through the ’80s, with much work and experimenting, 3D printing moved from its infancy and childhood to its adolescence. Though there are certainly others, three main printing methods have emerged: SLA - which uses a photo-sensitive liquid polymer; SLS - fuses material in a powder form; and FDM - deposits heated filament on a build plate to create objects layer by layer.

3D printing and prosthetics
One of the things that make 3D printing so appealing is the possibility to design, alter and customize objects. This has led to manufacturers using it to create prototypes in a much more efficient and timely manner. In the world of prosthetics almost everything is custom built for an individual patient - making 3D printing a very useful tool. 

In the last decade, groups like e-NABLE began creating, through open-source collaborations, hands for people who were missing fingers. This has sparked the hope for customizable, lower-cost prosthetic devices.

Often when a prosthetic leg is made, the patient wants a shape that resembles a real leg. This is most often done by encasing the metal tube that connects the foot to the rest of the socket with a foam material and sanding it to a leg shape. It can then be covered with a stocking or an artificial skin. This is known as a cosmetic cover. 3D printing has given rise to a market for personalized cosmetic covers for patients who aren’t as interested in natural-looking devices or really want to have an artistic way to express themselves.  

Dankmeyer’s involvement in 3D printing
Dankmeyer began their adventure in 3D printing in 2013 with the purchase of their first printer. Several people began the process of learning to design 3D objects as well as run the printer. That year also saw a number of staff members participated in an e-NABLE sponsored event where a number of pre-printed hands were assembled. 

If you are interested in seeing a video we made as an introduction to 3D printing, just click on the video link below.


Thank you for your question!  - Art Ross and Shawn Ross, Fabrication Technicians

Do you have a question you would like to Ask Us? Email us at info@dankmeyer.com

How often should I follow-up with my practitioner?

QUESTION:

How often should I follow-up with my practitioner?

Nancy W.

ANSWER:

In general, when you have any skin problems (for example, redness that does not go away in 20-30 minutes after using your orthosis or prosthesis) or pain while using your prosthesis or orthosis, you should follow-up with your practitioner. If you notice that your device is not functioning properly (ankle joints not operating well, prosthetic knee is not bending appropriately) we also recommend that you call and follow-up with us.

Prosthetics

If your prosthesis is fitting and working well, it is still a good idea to come in about every 6 months. We can inspect your prosthesis for signs of wear as well as look at your liners, sleeves, and socks to make sure they are in optimal condition for use with your prosthesis. It's a great idea to follow-up with us regularly so we can catch any problems early.  At the beginning of the process, when you first receive your prosthesis, we may see you more regularly for follow-up, as your limb may be changing quickly. However, over time these changes usually slow down and less frequent follow-ups may be more appropriate. We will normally call you to follow-up with you about every 6 months to see how you are doing.

Orthotics

We recommend an annual follow-up for orthoses. This is especially important if you have an orthosis that uses ankle or knee joints that may need maintenance or replacement. We will normally call you once a year to check in and see how you are doing. 

In all cases, if something does not fit or function well, please contact our office at 410-636-8114. We may be able to resolve issues over the phone, and if not we look forward to seeing you in our office!

Thanks for your question! - Nina Bondre, CPO

Do you have a question you would like to Ask Us? Email us at info@dankmeyer.com.

 

What kind of education does my practitioner have?

QUESTION:

What kind of education does my practitioner have?

Kevin B.

ANSWER:

Many people do not know about the education involved with becoming a Certified Prosthetist or Orthotist, as our field is fairly small. This is a common question our patients ask of their practitioners.

The education level for prosthetics and orthotics was raised in 2012 to a master's degree. Prior to 2012, practitioners would complete their bachelor's degree in a major of their choice, and then complete a separate certificate for orthotics and prosthetics. Now, there are no certificate programs available. The only route to become a practitioner is to complete a Master of Orthotics and Prosthetics program.

Once the master's degree is completed, a clinical residency must be completed. Residents can opt to focus on one discipline at a time for 12 months each, or do both orthotics and prosthetics together over the span of 18 months. During residency, residents work under the guidance of the clinical director and clinical mentors to learn patient care, proper documentation, and fabrication techniques. Following the successful completion of the residency, residents then take their board exams.

There are three exams per discipline. One exam per discipline is a clinical exam that takes place in Florida, where candidates are evaluated on their patient care skills and knowledge. After the candidate passes all of the exams, he or she is then bestowed the title of Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO). Practitioners continue to hone their skills after the exams for the rest of their career by completing continuing education through conferences and courses.

Dankmeyer's practitioners have completed education programs all over the country!  You can read about each individual and their education journey on our Clinical Staff page.

Thanks for your question! - Nina Bondre, CPO

Do you have a question you would like to Ask Us? Email us at info@dankmeyer.com.

 

What do I do if my prosthesis locking pin gets jammed?

Question:

What can I do if my locking pin gets jammed by a foreign object, and I am stuck in my prosthesis?   Andy

ANSWER:

If your prosthesis is equipped with a push button mechanism which releases your silicone liner to allow you to take off your prosthesis, this mechanism is called a shuttle lock. 

Over the years we have seen shuttle locks get jammed with foreign objects such as paper clips, craft paper and even a chunk of coal!  Usually it is a frayed sock, and the fabric gets caught, or the sock is donned in haste and not pulled up to expose the pin, resulting in the pin and sock being pulled into the locking hole. 

RULES OF THUMB to avoid the lock becoming jammed: 

1.  Do not allow the shuttle lock to become dirty.  Build-up of dirt may cause the lock to malfunction. You should attempt to keep water, sand and dirt out of the socket.

2.  Your socks were specifically made with holes in the bottom.  This hole will allow the pin, located at the bottom of your liner, to be completely exposed.  

3.  Always pull socks on completely, no wrinkles allowed!  Socks which are not pulled up allow the opportunity for the pin and the sock to become jammed inside the locking mechanism.  

4. The lock should be inspected and cleaned by a prosthetist every year.  

IF THE LOCK JAMS:

Do not panic and try to pull yourself out of the prosthesis.  Water may be used as a release agent.  Here is what you do:

  • Get a glass of cold water. 
  • Pour the water between your skin and the liner. 
  • Work the water around the liner to cover as much surface as possible.
  • Gently work your limb out of the liner.  You may have to add water several times as you gently work your leg out of the liner.

Do not attempt to fix a damaged lock yourself. Call your prosthetist for service. 

- Mark Treasure, CP, BOCO

Do you have a question you would like to Ask Us? Email us at info@dankmeyer.com.

 

What can you tell me about the new Medicare Card?

Question:

What is all this I've been hearing about a new Medicare card?  Is the one I already have still good? Mary Beth.

ANSWER:

Thank you for your excellent question, Mary Beth.  In an effort to prevent fraud and fight identity theft, with hopes of keeping taxpayer dollars safe, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are removing Social Security Numbers from all Medicare cards.  You will now have a new and unique Medicare number on your Medicare card. 

Starting in April 2018, Medicare will be mailing new Medicare cards to all people with Medicare on a geographical flow basis.  Maryland and states surrounding Maryland will be in the first wave of new cards that will be mailed starting in April 2018.  So, be on the lookout for your new Medicare card starting in April!  Once you receive it, please be sure to bring it to your next appointment so we can update our records with your new unique Medicare number!  

Your current Medicare card is still valid, however, once you receive your new card, you are encouraged to destroy your old card and start using your new card immediately.   If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage program, you will keep using your plan card as you do now.  For more information you can click here.  Happy Spring!

- Kristin Boswell, Director of Patient Services and Billing

Do you have a question you would like to Ask Us? Email us at info@dankmeyer.com.