Fraunhofer IGD Develops 3D Printing Technology for High-Quality Eye Prostheses

DARMSTADT, Germany, March 11, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) - The Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD has introduced a new 3D printing technology that significantly improves the manufacturing process of ocular prostheses. This innovation, which utilizes the institute's Cuttlefish:Eye software and Cuttlefish® printer driver, is currently being implemented at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, benefiting over 200 patients to date. The development and its impacts are detailed in a study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications.

Johann Reinhard, Deputy Department Head of the 3D Printing Technology Competence Center at Fraunhofer IGD, highlighted the technology's potential to enhance patient quality of life in a press release, stating, “Optimally adapted artificial eyes can enormously enhance the quality of life of those affected.” The technology aims to produce eye prostheses that are not only visually accurate but also fit perfectly in the patient's eye socket.

The research conducted by Fraunhofer IGD evaluated the appearance and shape of the prostheses in a sample of ten patients, focusing on the size and color of the iris and pupil, as well as the sclera's texturing. The treating ocularist rated these aspects as excellent, with Reinhard noting, “Patients describe the 3D-printed ocular prostheses as ‘life-changing’.”

This 3D printing approach offers a more efficient production process, reducing manual labor and potentially shortening the waiting period for patients in need of prostheses. The technology uses optical coherence tomography (OCT) to scan the eye socket and the healthy eye, eliminating the need for traditional alginate impressions. The Cuttlefish:Eye software then predicts the best-fitting prosthesis shape, allowing for the production of a prosthesis that closely matches the healthy eye in just a few minutes.

The introduction of this technology at Moorfields Eye Hospital marks a significant step forward in the field of ocular prosthetics, with potential applications extending to other areas of medical prosthetics. The Fraunhofer team is exploring the use of their 3D printing technology for dental restorations and facial prostheses as well.

For further information on this innovative technology, visit www.igd.fraunhofer.de.

Source: Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Graphics Research IGD via Newswire