Albuquerque-based University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center researchers are analyzing 3D-printed prosthetic hands and fingers.
Here are six takeaways:
1. Albuquerque-based Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation is funding the one-year study.
2. The researchers will study design options and materials and then test the prosthetics for functionality.
3. The goal of the study is to develop affordable, upper-extremity prosthetics for pediatric patients with congenital defects and amputations.
4. Children in need of prosthetics require new devices every six months to one year as they continue to grow. As of now, those prosthetics may cost around $700.
5. The researchers hope to develop a prosthetic option which patients can buy for less than $75.
6. UNM's Orthopaedics Biomechanics & Biomaterials Laboratory will execute the study, led by orthopedic surgeon Selina Silva, MD.