Special Issue on Additive Manufacturing in Orthotics and Prosthetics

Introduction:

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is revolutionising the field of orthotics and prosthetics and holds great promise for improving patient care. AM allows the production of custom-made and geometrically complex devices that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This is a major improvement over conventional manufacturing methods, which often rely on customised manual moulding or prefabrication.

AM also enables the use of a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, to create orthotics and prosthetics that are strong, lightweight and comfortable to wear. This paves the way for the creation of customised devices to suit individual needs and preferences of the patient, which can improve overall quality of life.

This Special Issue of Smart Materials in Manufacturing aims to present the AM of orthoses and prostheses, with a focus on manufacturing methods, materials, design and simulation, and the challenges and advantages of using AM technology. This issue also welcomes critical reviews and perspectives on emerging applications, developments and future directions of AM in orthotics and prosthetics.

Topics covered include but not limited to:

• Introduction to manufacturing of orthotics and prosthetics
• Materials in additive manufacturing of orthotics and prosthetics
• Additive manufacturing of lower limb orthotic devices
• Additive manufacturing of orthoses for spinal dysfunction
• Additive manufacturing of upper limb orthotic devices
• Additive manufacturing of orthoses for trauma and burn injuries
• Additive manufacturing of prosthetics for persons with upper limb amputation
• Additive manufacturing of prosthetics for persons with lower limb amputation

Important Deadlines:

• Submission deadline: 1 September 2023

Submission Instructions:

Please read the Guide for Authors (www.keaipublishing.com/en/journals/smart-materials-in-medicine/guide-for-authors/) before submitting. All articles should be submitted online (www.editorialmanager.com/smmf/default2.aspx), please select “Additive Manufacturing in Orthotics and Prosthetics” on submission.

Guest Editors:

• Dr. Alireza Nouri, RMIT University, Australia. alireza.nouri@rmit.edu.au
• Anahita Rohanishirvan, Deakin University, Australia. arohanishirvan@deakin.edu.au