THE ROLE OF 3D PRINTING IN THE PERSONALIZED DESIGN OF PROSTHESES AND ORTHESES FOR PATIENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

The relevance of the study is determined by the urgent need to develop effective prosthetic and orthotic solutions for patients with disabilities that meet modern requirements for quality of life, social integration, and rehabilitation support.Traditional manufacturing methods often neglect individual anatomical and biomechanical features, which reduces their effectiveness. 3D printing enables the integration of digital modeling, additive manufacturing, and biocompatible materials into a unified technological cycle, creating opportunities for an entirely new level of personalization.The aim of the article is to provide a comprehensive scientific justification for the role of 3D printing technologies in the personalized design and production of prostheses and orthoses for patients with disabilities, as well as to identify prospects for their integration into contemporary clinical and rehabilitation practice.The research methodology is based on a systematic analysis of the principles of digital modeling, parametric design, and the use of biocompatible materials in combination with additive technologies. Methods applied include comparative analysis, modeling of the functional characteristics of devices, and the generalization of data from current clinical practices.The study demonstrated that additive technologies increase the accuracy of reproducing anatomical structures, as well as the functionality and comfort of prostheses and orthoses. Economic and organizational advantages of the transition to an on-demand production model were identified. It was established that 3D printing reduces production time, lowers costs, and enhances rehabilitation outcomes. Key technological, material, and regulatory constraints that limit large- scale implementation of this technology in medical practice were also outlined.The conclusions confirm that 3D printing can ensure a high level of personalization of devices, improve the quality of rehabilitation, and expand the accessibility of modern medical technologies. It was found that implementation requires the standardization of digital protocols, the development of material science, the automation of production processes, and the establishment of multidisciplinary clinical-engineering teams.Future research perspectives are related to the use of digital twins for design optimization, the development of combined printing technologies to integrate polymer and composite materials, the creation of registries of clinical outcomes for 3D-printed devices, and the improvement of regulatory and economic mechanisms for their reimbursement. These directions open opportunities for the large-scale integration of 3D printing into the system of personalized rehabilitation medicine.