Autodesk, the global 3D software major and Imaginarium, a prototyping- manufacturing center have proved that their latest digital handcast for orthopaedic fractures would transform the orthopaedic fractures cast technology.
 
Conventional plastic cast solutions are not water resistant and tend to get dirty quickly. To address this problem, the two companies have proved in patient trials that the new handcast which is light weight and bio-friendly is far more comfortable for patients compared to the conventional plasters to fix dislocations and broken bones.
 
Orthopaedic limb fractures are one of the largest medical conditions. The digital handcast was developed using of Imaginarium’s 3D printing technique and the cloud based software ‘Fusion 360’ by Autodesk.

In its effort to ensure the commercial viability of the digital handcast, Autodesk and the Bengaluru-based Imaginarium worked with Dr. Vijay Shetty, consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. L.H. Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai to assess its actual practicality.
 
“We have noted that the handcast perfectly fits on the body structure, provides extra support to the affected part and ensures the much-needed flexibility for the patient. It is well ventilated, non-itchy and reduces the chances of developing rash. The biggest advantage is that it is washable. But the main limitation is its initial cost. However, higher volumes could increase affordability”, said Dr. Shetty.
 
Medical science and contemporary technology, along with creative designers have got together for this project. During the trial, the patient was scanned and medical experts analysed the case to provide the design specifications for the cast to be created. The design executed on Fusion 360 factored in the user-friendly feature. Post approval of the 3D virtual model, the cast made of biocompatible PA 12 material was sent for the patient’s trial. The comfort felt by the patient was evident from his reaction, said Dr. Shetty.
 
Fusion 360 comes with adequate RAM support enabling highly efficient rendering, modelling and analysis at minimal time and great speed. Localised computational expertise collaborating with cloud based resources and real time sharing of data amongst stake holders working from diverse locations is a game changer, said Guruprasad Rao, director, Imaginarium India.
 
While Autodesk hasn't ventured into healthcare, it is the companies in the sector which use its software to create innovative products. Although Imaginarium is one classic example in India, the other examples in India as well as globally are Jaipur Foot or ReMotion knee joint and Organavo respectively.

The ReMotion knee joint delivers high-performance mobility for low-income amputees. The design is based on extensive feedback from amputees to ensure they can kneel, squat, and ride a bicycle. Digital prototyping, durability testing, and analysis was done using Autodesk technology which further helped refine the design's functionality. Over 7,300 people have been fitted with lightweight, water-resistant ReMotion knee joints, stated the company.

Autodesk also partnered with Organovo to manufacture functional 3D human tissues and organs. 3D bio-printing technology is used to create living human tissues that are architecturally correct and made entirely of living human cells. The resulting structures can function like native human tissues, and represent an opportunity for advancement in medical research, stated the company.