application of 3d printing technologies in the design and manufacture of prosthetic sockets for low-middle income countries: a case study in vietnam

Prosthetic limbs are critical devices that significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with limb amputations, enabling them to regain mobility, independence, and participation in daily activities. however, in low- and middle-income countries like vietnam, access to prosthetics remains a significant challenge due to high costs, limited availability of modern manufacturing technologies, scarce materials, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. these barriers leave many amputees without suitable solutions, impacting their physical and psychological well-being. this paper introduces an innovative approach to the design and manufacturing of affordable prosthetic sockets tailored specifically for lower-limb amputees in vietnam. the proposed method replaces traditional labor-intensive and costly manual techniques with a streamlined digital workflow. by integrating 3d scanning for precise stump measurement, cad software for design customization, and fdm 3d printing for efficient production, this approach significantly reduces costs and production time while ensuring high levels of customization. this digital methodology not only improves accessibility to prosthetics for underserved populations but also provides a scalable, sustainable solution for addressing the growing demand for prosthetic devices in resource-limited settings. it holds great potential for broader implementation in  similar contexts worldwide.