Satisfaction with Customizable 3D-Printed Finger Orthoses Compared to Commercial SilverRing™ Splints

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Natasha Irani, OTD, OTR/L

Rebecca Ozelie, DHS, OTR/L

Abstract

Background: Emerging research primarily supports 3D-printing as a customizable, replicable orthosis option. However, more research emphasizing orthotic users’ viewpoints is necessary to address challenges with orthotic wear adherence and satisfaction.

Method: Forty persons were recruited at an academic medical center. After wearing each orthosis for 8 hr (or as long as tolerated), the participants completed post-satisfaction surveys to measure satisfaction with different aspects of both orthoses worn.

Results: Forty participants (21 females, 19 males, mean age = 24.98 years) were enrolled in the study. Satisfaction scores (N = 40) were not statistically significant for 3D-printed orthoses compared to SilverRing™ Splints across all domains except for Affordability, which was rated significantly higher for 3D-printed orthoses (M = 10.00, SD = 0.000) compared to SilverRing™ Splints (M = 5.28, SD = 2.35), t(39) = 12.70, p < .001. The mean difference in satisfaction scores was 4.72, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 3.97 to 5.48.

Conclusion: Findings provide novel evidence supporting the use of this customizable 3D-printed prototype as a cost-effective, alternative option to established commercial finger orthoses. This study has potential to assist clinicians’ decision-making as they navigate best orthoses options for individuals with swan-neck deformities.

Comments

The authors declare that they have no competing financial, professional, or personal interest that might have influenced the performance or presentation of the work described in this manuscript.

Recommended Citation

Irani, N., & Ozelie, R. (2023). Satisfaction with Customizable 3D-Printed Finger Orthoses Compared to Commercial SilverRing™ Splints. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 11(2), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.2016