3D-Printable Knee Arthrometer: Development and Validation
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Stieven Filho Edmar, Nunes Carolline P, Martins Neto Ayrton A, Nascimento Isabela P, Foggiatto Jose A, Rosa Fernando M, Milcent Paul A, Maia Caue O, Namba Maisa S, Santiago Lucas
Primary Institution: Federal University of Paraná
Hypothesis
The study aimed to develop and validate a knee arthrometer that can be fabricated using 3D printing technology to improve accessibility.
Conclusion
Using 3D printing technology to fabricate a knee arthrometer is feasible, resulting in an inexpensive and accessible tool.
Supporting Evidence
- All participants were able to assemble the 3D arthrometer with the instructions provided.
- Only one participant requested the instructor's assistance once during assembly.
- 100% agreement was obtained regarding the usability and ease of use of the equipment.
- The arthrometer was successfully fabricated by 3D printing at an approximate cost of US$30.
- Participants expressed high agreement on the device's usability, ease of assembly, and practicality.
Takeaway
Researchers made a new knee tool that is cheap and easy to use, so more doctors can help people with knee injuries.
Methodology
An experimental cross-sectional study involving orthopedic professionals who assembled and evaluated the 3D arthrometer.
Limitations
The sample size for face validation was limited, and the study did not include direct comparisons with existing arthrometers.
Participant Demographics
All participants were men, orthopedists, and knee surgeons recognized by the Brazilian Society of Knee Surgery.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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