Evaluation of a rapid prototyping application for stomas
ISSN: 1355-2546
Article publication date: 15 July 2020
Issue publication date: 29 September 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to describe the development of an internal waste-collection device for patients who have undergone a colostomy or ileostomy. Its design is based on devices that have been produced by 3D printing with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. The aim is to find an alternative to the external bags that these patients currently use and to evaluate the properties of the device produced by additive manufacturing.
Design/methodology/approach
Software for solid modelling has been used, and virtual models allow its visualization and animation, for evaluation, in a simple and fast way. Subsequently, functional prototypes have been developed by a multidisciplinary team, which includes surgeons and engineers, and have been tested to verify their mechanical properties and suitability for function.
Findings
The project has developed a functional design that has been patented and is in the clinical trials phase. This study demonstrates how 3D printing technologies are the perfect complement to accelerate the design process and build functional prototypes at low costs. The experimental tests regarding cytotoxicity, printing orientation, dynamic and static loads and temperature resistance have demonstrated the validity of the proposed device.
Originality/value
A device for internal pouch in colostomized patients has been designed, manufactured by fused deposition modelling and validated.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge to the University Institute of Industrial Technology of Asturias (IUTA) for the financial support of this investigation.
Citation
Sierra, J.M., Rodríguez, J.I., Villazon, M.M., Cortizo, J.L. and Fernandez, M.d.R. (2020), "Evaluation of a rapid prototyping application for stomas", Rapid Prototyping Journal, Vol. 26 No. 9, pp. 1525-1533. https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-07-2019-0181
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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