Application of a 3D-Printed Writing–Typing Assistive Device in Patients with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

The current study aimed to assess the effects of a customized three-dimensional (3D) printed writing and typing assistive device in patients with cervical spinal cord injury who presented with severe hand dysfunction. Three patients with cervical spinal cord injury who presented with severe hand dysfunction were included in the analysis. The patients’ writing and typing abilities were evaluated after using the silicon assistive device made from a 3D-printed frame for 4 weeks. Patient discomfort and issues were evaluated. Customized 3D-printed writing and typing assistive devices were developed. The Korean Western Aphasia Battery (K-WAB), particularly the writing part, and the word practice program of Hangeul were utilized to assess device effects. All patients with cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs) performed writing or typing using a customized assistive device. Patients 2 and 3 had better typing and writing accuracies based on the word practice program of Hangeul and the K-WAB, respectively. However, patient 3 had increased time, which was associated with the process of adapting to the use of the customized device. Nevertheless, he was highly satisfied with the device. The patient’s typing and writing speed and accuracy improve with the customized 3D-printed device, which can lead to a better performance in the activities of daily living.

Keywords

• three-dimensional printing
• assistive devices
• spinal cord injury
• hand function
• tetraplegia