Feasibility of customized 3D-printed assistive technology within an existing multidisciplinary amyotrophic lateral sclerosis clinic

Abstract

Purpose

Three-dimensional (3 D) printing of assistive technology (AT) is an emerging intervention in rehabilitation sciences. Existing research primarily considers narrow applications of this technology with most studies focussing on a single type of assistive device. Individuals with amyotrophic lateral scleroses (ALS) have high abandonment rates of prefabricated AT. Therefore, the goal of this project was to determine the implementation and acceptability feasibility of meeting AT needs through the creation of customized, 3D-printed devices within an existing multidisciplinary ALS clinic.

Methods

Implementation feasibility was measured using descriptive statistics about the research team’s ability to fulfil device requests. Acceptability was evaluated using semi-structured patient satisfaction interviews after AT device provision. The study utilized thematic analysis to identify patterns in the qualitative data collected from participant interviews.

Results

Nine participants identified at least one need for 3D-printed assistive devices customized to their unique performance abilities and needs. Seven participants received 3D-printed devices, four of whom completed the follow-up interview. The research team was able to fulfil 20 of 34 device requests, supporting implementation feasibility. Thematic analysis revealed three themes from the interviews: Satisfaction with Devices and Services, Value of Training as a Service, and Increased Participation and Choice.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate implementation feasibility and participant satisfaction with the process of receiving devices, supporting acceptability feasibility. Future research into the efficacy of customized 3D-printed AT is recommended.

Implications for rehabilitation

• Individuals with ALS have unmet needs in assistive technology.

• Custom AT development using 3D printing can be implemented within an existing, multidisciplinary ALS clinic.

• Future 3D printing research should rigorously investigate methods to meet the unique needs and challenges of individuals in this setting.

Keywords:

• Assistive technology
• three-dimensional printing
• feasibility study
• amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• equipment design

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Dianna Temple, OTD, MFA, OTR/L for her contributions to the online training module for CAD and 3D-printing skills. The authors also wish to thank the anonymous reviewer whose thoughtful critique of the original thematic analysis led to the more nuanced exploration of the resulting themes presented in the final manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).