An adaptive orthosis for hand osteoarthritis; feasibility & prototype
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An adaptive orthosis for hand osteoarthritis; feasibility & prototype
IRAS ID
226325
Contact name
Angela Kedgley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 31 days
Research summary
We have generated two new finger splint prototypes for hand osteoarthritis patients; a rigid thermoplastic splint and a soft elasticated splint. They would both conform to each of the participants' exact finger geometry. The first by moulding the plastic to the participants' finger and the second by scanning the finger with a non-invasive surface scanner to generate the shape to cut out of the stretchy material. Additional supports for this soft splint, which conform exactly to each individual, will be 3D printed on site.
Before progressing to extensive trials of with such devices, we wish to obtain patient and clinician feedback on both the feasibility of the in-clinic measurement and production process as well as the function of the prototype splints.
This feedback would be in the form of both qualitative feedback on the ease of fabrication and fitting, aesthetics, fit, comfort etc. as well as quantitative data from functionality, dexterity and force production tests.
REC name
London - Chelsea Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/1129
Date of REC Opinion
20 Jul 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion