3D printing machine for prosthetics
“Using CAD technology, the patient’s foot structure, deformity or pressure distribution is mapped
timely production and rapid dispensing responses and is also used within research to understand foot structure and function better. The Department of Podiatry owns an entire CAD system (software and milling machine), and undergraduate training covers CAD in the curriculum. Simiso explains how 3D design has positively impacted podiatry. “It replaces traditional manufacturing methods and provides excellent clinical outcomes for patients. The technology is supported by various studies, making practising podiatrists more enthusiastic about using such methods,” he says. Telemedicine Telemedicine holds treatment opportunities for patients where no traditional access to healthcare professionals such as podiatrists is available. It also offers a chance to monitor at-risk patients using technology and predict and prevent/reduce the risks of amputations or severe foot deformities in at-risk patients. Diabetes and arthritis Podiatry plays a significant role in protecting the foot from diabetes- and arthritis-related complications.
wider than South Africa, being the only department is also limiting in terms of benchmarking and other academic-related activities. The department has to establish international collaborations says the department head, Simiso Ntuli. CAD design and 3D printing CAD devices are manufactured within 15 minutes, compared to handmade devices, which could take three to four days. The technology allows a process by which images of a patient’s foot are used to generate thousands of data points, enabling the production of a completely customised orthotic. “This is an advanced technology that saves time and guarantees quality and reliability. In contrast to traditional handmade methods, this method eliminates room for human error during the handmade manufacturing process,” says Simiso. The 3D (three-dimensional) printing process considers the patient’s weight, activity level and shoe type, and the provider’s input on specific misalignments. Moreover, podiatry as a profession is seeing growth in 3D scanning in the clinical domain. 3D technology is valuable for orthotic manufacture to improve
out. These aspects are often predisposed to foot-related
complications such as ulceration. Another critical area is foot care education and treatment of existing foot-related complications in the diabetic and rheumatoid foot. CAD technology also reduces errors in the manufactured foot devices and improves the foot’s function, resulting in improved mobility,” says Simiso. The technology is also helpful during training, further enhancing the quality of care for these at-risk patient groups. Simiso hopes to see more institutions that offer training in podiatry. Sadly, the number of podiatrists in South Africa and on the African continent remains low as the majority emigrate within a few years of graduating. In addition, having one institution limits the growth of this profession, he says. “We would like to see podiatrists stay in South Africa and one or two more local podiatry schools within the next few years. Also, we would like to see more podiatrists conducting research and employed in the public sector.”
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ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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