3D Technologies in Prosthetics and Orthotics Education

Ternopil National Medical University has signed a cooperation agreement with MED3DRUK, a leading company in the field of medical 3D printing in Ukraine. This partnership marks a significant step in modernizing the training of future prosthetists and orthotists and integrating advanced additive manufacturing technologies into the educational process.

For the second consecutive year, specialized training sessions have been held at the MED3DRUK laboratory in disciplines such as Prosthetics, Orthotics, Orthotics and Assistive Technologies in Pediatrics, as well as elective courses Digitalization of the Prosthetics and Orthotics System and Orthotics and Assistive Technologies in Geriatrics.

During training in the medical 3D printing laboratory, students master 3D scanning techniques, which ensure precise reproduction of a patient’s anatomical shape or limb stump. Future prosthetists and orthotists also acquire skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and gain hands-on experience operating 3D printers — there are currently 15 in the laboratory.

Since the 3D printing process involves the use of specialized materials such as bioplastic, nylon, and thermoplastic polyurethane, these topics are explored in depth within the Materials Science course, helping students form a comprehensive understanding of the technological cycle of prosthetic and orthotic production.

Today, innovative technologies — 3D scanning, computer modeling, and 3D printing — are transforming the approach to designing prosthetic and orthotic devices, making them more precise, comfortable, and personalized.

Thanks to the partnership with MED3DRUK, TNMU students gain new opportunities for hands-on learning and the digitalization of prosthetic and orthotic manufacturing, aligning their training with current global trends in rehabilitation engineering.