Mothers’ perspectives on the use and acceptability of 3d printed prosthesis by their children with congenital upper limb difference in India: a qualitative study.

AbstractPurposeMethodResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONChildren with congenital upper limb difference (CULD) in India have limited access to treatment with conventional prostheses. 3D printed prosthetic devices (3DPP) can function as transitional prostheses for growing children with congenital transverse deficiency. They are low-cost and the designs are easily customized. However, functional outcomes, access, and acceptability are still unexplored in many clinical settings. This qualitative study sought perspectives from Indian mothers of children with CULD using 3DPP for the first time. The objective was to enhance understanding of 3DPP acceptability and to explore how their children utilized these devices.Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven mothers of children aged 3 to 11 years with varying levels of CULD who had been fitted with a 3DPP for at least 1 month prior. The interviews aimed to gather insights into the children’s daily experiences with the devices and the mothers’ perceptions of 3DPP. Thematic analysis was carried out using an inductive approach.Four major themes were identified through thematic analysis. They were: 1. Design and functionality of 3DPP, 2. Adaptation patterns, 3. Social attitudes and perceptions, and 4. Access to the Center for congenital hand differences: location and its services.Our study explores the early-stage use and acceptance of 3DPP in India. Mothers reported several reasons for prosthesis abandonment including functional limitations, pain, and unmet expectations. The acceptability of 3DPP was moderate among close family, but social stigmatization was still a barrier to continued use. Addressing these issues and offering tailored solutions could be important to achieve successful 3DPP adaptation.3D printed prostheses (3DPP) offer affordability and customizability. The current study explores their use and acceptability in a low-income setting in India.Specialized and individualized 3DPP design is essential. Given the identified limitations in functionality, prioritizing the patient’s needs for specific applications in daily activities or sports with improved grip is critical for optimal performance.Enhanced communication and collaboration among all stakeholders (parents, child, surgeon, and engineers) are necessary to prevent disappointment and improve overall usage rates of 3DPP.Implementing 3DPP in rehabilitation should account for local socioeconomic barriers and develop strategies to overcome these obstacles to achieve effective and functional outcomes.3D printed prostheses (3DPP) offer affordability and customizability. The current study explores their use and acceptability in a low-income setting in India.Specialized and individualized 3DPP design is essential. Given the identified limitations in functionality, prioritizing the patient’s needs for specific applications in daily activities or sports with improved grip is critical for optimal performance.Enhanced communication and collaboration among all stakeholders (parents, child, surgeon, and engineers) are necessary to prevent disappointment and improve overall usage rates of 3DPP.Implementing 3DPP in rehabilitation should account for local socioeconomic barriers and develop strategies to overcome these obstacles to achieve effective and functional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]