Prototipo de Prótesis de Brazo Mioeléctrica Impresa en 3D para Niños con Agenesia de Miembro Superior: Un Estudio de Viabilidad

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Abstract

Congenital upper limb amputations are a medical condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Causes can stem from genetic factors, issues during fetal development, chromosomal abnormalities, or environmental factors, ranging in severity from partial finger absence to complete limb absence.

One of the most common causes is upper limb agenesis, which can be partial or complete. Conditions like achondroplasia, radial absence, fibular hemimelia, or amelia may result in limb absence or underdevelopment. While treatments such as upper limb prosthetics exist to enhance the quality of life for amputees, they can be costly and challenging to acquire.

This study developed a low-cost arm prosthesis prototype for pediatric patients with upper limb agenesis. The prototype was designed and manufactured using additive digital manufacturing methods, specifically 3D printing. Mechanical parts were produced with the Creality Ender-5 Plus printer, while electronic components were designed and implemented using an Arduino Uno.

Weighing 250 grams with a manufacturing cost of approximately US$500, the prototype can perform a cylindrical grip with a gripping force of up to 10 newtons. Finite element analysis results demonstrate that the prototype has sufficient safety margins to withstand loads of up to 2 N. Additionally, the recorded maximum displacement of 0.45 mm is deemed acceptable.

The study's outcomes reveal that the forearm prosthesis prototype is a viable solution for pediatric patients with upper limb agenesis. The prototype is functional, safe, and relatively low-cost.