Functional 3D-Printed Finger Prosthesis with Compliant Fingertips for Support of iADLs

We propose a method for fabricating custom passive finger prostheses with compliant fingertips. The prosthetic devices detailed in this study are intended to mimic the compliance of biological fingertips: improving the capacity and comfort of keyboard typing, the manipulation of small objects, and instrumental activities of daily living in general. The proposed method utilizes 3D scanning, 3D printing, and computer-aided design to realize the compliant fingertips feature and to create custom-fit prostheses. We present the clinical application of the proposed prostheses on two end users and the evaluation results of typing speed and gross finger dexterity. The results showed successful fitting of the developed prostheses on both participants. Performance tests showed comparable performance in typing speed and accuracy with and without prostheses, and improved comfort with the prostheses. Gross finger dexterity and pinch force did not show improvement with the prostheses. The participants were able to utilize all fingers in keyboard typing and other iADLs instead of only the intact fingers, which indicates the potential for further functional improvement after habituation to the prostheses. In addition to improved comfort, the participants also reported reduced pain in sensitive sites, and aesthetic satisfaction with the prostheses.