A human-centred design approach to hybrid manufacturing of a scapholunate interosseous ligament medical practice rig

Abstract

Surgical simulation models are becoming increasingly more prevalent, complex and niche within the medical industry, yet there has been nothing developed to date that focuses specifically on scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) injuries, which are common amongst a large range of ages and demographics. This study seeks to present the design process of a surgical practice rig designed to support care for the ruptured SLIL. The novelty of this practice rig is apparent, because it explores multiple 3D printing technologies in order to evaluate which is the most suitable for a medical practice rig of this nature. User feedback indicated that hybrid manufacturing applications utilising traditional fabrication techniques and 3D printing technologies was superior when accounting for the requisite movement capabilities and modularity the rig needed to process. Throughout the design process, a user-centred approach was used to translate the needs of the surgeon into a functional product. An emergent design methodology was used to incorporate feedback from medical professionals and engineers. These two methodological approaches were used to ensure the end-product fulfilled several functions: aiding surgeons to understand a new surgical implant, providing reasonable bio-fidelity in wrist function to enable surgical practice, and remaining simple enough to be understood by a patient undergoing a complex procedure. Following user tests with a variety of hand and wrist surgeons, we found this rig suitable for several applications. The rig functioned as expected, providing surgeons with a means to experiment with a new surgical implant, and proved an effective tool for patient education.