Revolutionizing Hand Therapy: Orfit’s 3D-Printed Orthoses Offer Unprecedented Adaptability

In a major leap forward for hand therapy, Orfit Industries has unveiled SHAP3D, a groundbreaking 3D-printing filament that combines precision manufacturing with real-time adjustability. This innovation promises to transform the fabrication of custom orthoses, offering clinicians the ability to modify splints quickly and efficiently—addressing a long-standing challenge in rehabilitation.

For decades, hand therapists have relied on low-temperature thermoplastics to create custom orthoses, molding them by hand to fit a patient’s unique anatomy. While effective, this process demands significant skill and time. The rise of 3D printing introduced a new level of precision, but traditional printed orthoses lacked a critical feature: the ability to adjust them post-production.

“Until now, modifying a rigid 3D-printed orthosis was nearly impossible,” explains Sona Khaneh Shenas, Product Manager at Orfit. “If a patient’s swelling changed or pressure points developed, clinicians had to start from scratch.”

SHAP3D changes that. The patented filament, designed for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers, softens at just 65°C, allowing therapists to reshape the orthosis as needed—much like traditional thermoplastics. This breakthrough bridges the gap between high-tech manufacturing and hands-on clinical adaptability.

Why SHAP3D Stands Out

• Adjustability: Unlike conventional 3D-printed materials, SHAP3D can be reheated and reshaped, ensuring a perfect fit throughout a patient’s recovery.
• Versatility: Compatible with various printing speeds, it integrates seamlessly into existing workflows.
• Biocompatibility: The material is skin-safe and meets stringent medical standards, making it ideal for prolonged wear.

“For the first time, we’re giving hand therapists a material that blends innovation with real-world practicality,” says Khaneh Shenas. “This isn’t just a new product—it’s a new approach to rehabilitation.”

Orfit Industries, a Belgian family-owned company, has long been a pioneer in medical thermoplastics. With 90 employees and operations in 105 countries, the firm dedicates 15% of its annual revenue to R&D—a testament to its focus on advancing patient care.

“We don’t just develop products; we develop solutions that make a tangible difference,” says Steven Cuypers, Chairman of the Board. “SHAP3D is the result of years of research and a deep understanding of clinicians’ needs.”

Orfit will debut SHAP3D at the IFSHT Hand Surgery and Hand Therapy Congress in Washington this week, offering professionals a firsthand look at its potential. The event underscores the growing role of 3D printing in medical applications—a trend Orfit aims to lead.

Orfit specializes in medical-grade thermoplastics for orthotics, prosthetics, and radiation oncology. With subsidiaries in the U.S. and China, the company continues to push boundaries in patient care, ensuring its innovations reach a global audience.

For more information, visit www.orfit.com.

Media Contact:
Chloé Cuypers
Orfit Industries
+32 0472956135
chloe.cuypers@orfit.com

SOURCE Orfit Industries