Prothotic Laboratories introduces revolutionary 3D-printed scoliosis braces to the U.S. market
First Facility in the U.S. to Integrate the Embrace Corset Solution into Pediatric Orthotics:
Prothotic Laboratories, a premier orthotic and prosthetic facility specializing in pediatric care, proudly announces its groundbreaking adoption of 3D printing technology for scoliosis bracing. Located in Farmingdale, NY, and working in collaboration with Dr. Vishal Sarwahi and his team of orthopedic surgeons at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Prothotic Laboratories is the first facility in the United States to integrate the innovative Embrace Corset solution into its in-house production process based in New York. This innovative approach promises to significantly improve patient comfort.
This pioneering technology offers an environmentally conscious and patient-centered solution, enhancing the comfort, functionality, and sustainability of scoliosis treatment devices.
Charles Quigg, CEO and owner of Prothotic Laboratories, shared his enthusiasm for this technological leap: “Traditionally, we’ve carved torsos out of foam, which has presented challenges in terms of material efficiency and storage. Transitioning to a fully digital workflow with 3D printing eliminates these issues, reduces material waste, and allows us to store designs digitally. We’re excited to bring this innovation to our patients.”
Advancing scoliosis bracing
Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, often diagnosed in children between the ages of 10 and 15 during growth spurts. The primary goal of scoliosis bracing is to prevent further progression of the spinal curve, thereby avoiding the need for more invasive treatments like surgery. The braces are typically worn for 14-23 hours a day and must provide significant corrective pressure to hold the spine in a straighter position. As such, they must balance rigidity and comfort, as the patient will wear them for extended periods.
The patient population affected by scoliosis, particularly children and adolescents, presents unique challenges. These young patients are still growing, and their bodies are more sensitive to the discomforts associated with wearing rigid orthotic devices.
As many scoliosis patients require their braces throughout critical developmental years, Prothotic Laboratories understands the importance of offering a solution that minimizes discomfort and maximizes effectiveness to provide the best outcomes for pediatric patients during a critical period in their development
Advancing scoliosis bracing with innovation and accessibility
After working closely with Dr. Manuel Rigo for several years, Prothotic Laboratories has designed and rigorously refined its own in-house variation of the Rigo-Cheneau scoliosis brace, the “Pro-Cheneau”. This improved design was initially created with the goal of increasing access to industry-leading scoliosis treatments for many families by providing a locally produced Rigo Cheneau Brace. With the Embrace Corset solution we can continue with this innovative approach and promise to significantly improve patient comfort.
The future of orthotic solutions: benefits of 3D printing
Prothotic Laboratories’ integration of the Embrace Corset solution introduces a host of benefits, including:
- Customized Patient Comfort: 3D-printed braces feature both rigid zones for correction and flexible zones for improved wearability.
- Material Efficiency: Utilizing certified polypropylene (PP) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials, these braces are lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly.
- Sustainability: Digital workflows reduce waste while enabling precise and repeatable manufacturing processes.
- Precision for Neuromuscular Soft Body Jackets: TPU-based soft body jackets offer a permanent corset solution, combining support and patient comfort in one innovative product.
The first 3D printer will be installed in December 2024, with a second setup arriving in early 2025.
About Prothotic Laboratories
Since 1988, Prothotic Laboratories has been dedicated to improving mobility and quality of life for patients throughout New York. As a family-owned facility, they specialize in creating custom orthotic and prosthetic devices onsite, with a focus on advanced technologies and personalized care for pediatric patients with scoliosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal muscular atrophy.
This new technological initiative underscores Prothotic Laboratories’ commitment to innovation and sustainability in the orthotic and prosthetic industries.
