Design and development of patient-specific prosthetic socket for lower limb amputation

Abstract

The work aims to design and development of a prosthetic socket for lower limb amputation with 3D printing technology for a patient. It is focused on the finite element-based simulation and analysis by utilizing CT based three-dimensional (3D) model. In this study, image processing software is used for extracting models from CT images and obtained models are modified in CAD modeling software in STL format. These files are examined in ANSYS simulation to performing the static and dynamic analysis of the prosthetic stump and socket. Based on the simulation results, the model is to prepare with the 3D printer. The results from the 3D model simulation can be used to estimate the pressure distribution. The function of the below-knee prosthesis is to control the leg under static and dynamic conditions. The prosthetic sockets evolution and prefabrication by using finite element approach very interesting topic in this research work for the fabricators. Finally, it helps contribute to an overall prefabrication evaluation system to allow healthcare providers. The patients are comfortable with the transtibial prosthetics made of 3D printers with the simulation process to fit.