Page 533 - IJB-10-2

International Journal of Bioprinting 3D printing of custom mallet splints

Figure 5. Selected patient photos showing generic versus 3D-printed custom splint. (A) Ill-fitting Stack splint; (B) skin maceration from ill-fitting Stack
splint; (C) air-vent opening displayed along the side of the 3D-printed splint; (D) over-taping, which causes blocking of the airflow in a 3D-printed splint;
(E) light taping, which secures the splint and allows airflow in the 3D-printed splint.

onward. This is an important finding because this decline Patients commented that not having to use tape to secure
in the mechanical properties of a 3D-printed material has the 3D-printed splint would have been an added bonus as
been reported previously and needs to be addressed in trying to secure the splint alone can be cumbersome. One
29
future research. This may explain why the Stack splint patient did not wear tape throughout the study and did not
was rated higher than the 3D-printed splint in relation experience the splint falling off. However, nine out of ten
to durability (30% of patients rated the 3D splint as very patients wore tape throughout to secure the splint.
satisfactory in comparison to 50% for the Stack splint
for durability). 3.6. Patient quotes
Regarding the generic Stack splint, one patient commented
Patients also reported that the 3D-printed splint was that it “wasn’t much good” to them. The patient found it
at times warm and commented that better air flow could “clumsy, too big” and that it got “caught in clothes and
increase comfort. This is again an important finding as bed clothes” while performing activities of daily living
improving airflow, thus comfort, will be a key focus on the (ADLs). The patient also reported that the 3D-printed
next iteration. On analyzing how patients were taping the splint, although much improved and being a better fit,
3D-printed splint, those who mentioned the splint was too was “sweaty” and “needed more ventilation.” Patients
hot at times and required improved air flow had over-taped commented that the Stack splint seemed “better ventilated
the splint. Figure 5C shows the air vent along the side of the as [sic] had holes” and “felt more airy.”
3D-printed splint. Figure 5D displays over-taping causing
a blockage of air flow through the 3D-printed splint, and Patients commented that wearing either splint
Figure 5E shows light taping to secure the splint and allow throughout the day was difficult in relation to performing
airflow. Despite over-taping being a possible cause to the ADLs. Many found wearing a glove useful to keep the
3D-printed splint feeling hot at times, the material used for splints dry. However, they noted the need for “extra care
3D printing of mallet splints needs addressing in relation removing the glove as [sic] can pull the splint away.” They
to warping and airflow. also noted that it “increases sweating.”

Volume 10 Issue 2 (2024) 525 doi: 10.36922/ijb.1963