Satisfaction with Customizable 3D-Printed Finger Orthoses Compared to Commercial SilverRing™ Splints.

Background: Emerging research primarily supports 3D-printing as a customizable, replicable orthosis option. However, more research emphasizing orthotic users' viewpoints is necessary to address challenges with orthotic wear adherence and satisfaction. Method: Forty persons were recruited at an academic medical center. After wearing each orthosis for 8 hr (or as long as tolerated), the participants completed post-satisfaction surveys to measure satisfaction with different aspects of both orthoses worn. Results: Forty participants (21 females, 19 males, mean age = 24.98 years) were enrolled in the study. Satisfaction scores (N = 40) were not statistically significant for 3D-printed orthoses compared to SilverRing™ Splints across all domains except for Affordability, which was rated significantly higher for 3Dprinted orthoses (M = 10.00, SD = 0.000) compared to SilverRing™ Splints (M = 5.28, SD = 2.35), t(39) = 12.70, p < .001. The mean difference in satisfaction scores was 4.72, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from 3.97 to 5.48. Conclusion: Findings provide novel evidence supporting the use of this customizable 3D-printed prototype as a cost-effective, alternative option to established commercial finger orthoses. This study has potential to assist clinicians' decision-making as they navigate best orthoses options for individuals with swanneck deformities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]