Barber's 3D Printing Debut

Yesterday was a VERY EXCITING day at Barber Prosthetics!  

As you may have heard, various people have begun to explore the way that 3D Printing can contribute to the world of prosthetics.  Up until recently, most of this work has been done by people who are not Certified Prosthetists - engineers, designers, high school students and more.  A few years ago, a company in US run by Certified Prosthetists/Orthotists began to explore the application of this technology to the world of Prosthetics and Orthotics.  A few weeks ago we began working with them to trial this new technology.  

Yesterday we completed our very first print - a transtibial socket, sized approximately what someone who was 4 or 5 years old would wear.  It was incredible to see this socket come together before our very eyes.

Here is our 3D printer in action: 

And finally, the print is complete!!!

Now, we have a little socket, ready to be fit on someone.  The next step ahead is to put these sockets through rigorous testing to see how they compare to the standard socket materials currently used to ensure the highest level of safety for our patients.  
 

Stay tuned for more 3D Printing updates and perhaps in the new year, your socket will be made using this cool technology!