1.3D printing technology revolutionizes orthosis customization.

-Precise fit and rapid manufacturing: The non-invasive treatment center of the Third People's Hospital of Huizhou uses 3D printing technology. Through millimeter-level scanning and CAD design, it can deliver orthopedic braces within 48 hours. Compared with traditional plaster molding, the error is reduced from 3-5mm to 0.2mm. The material used is medical-grade TPU with a nano-antibacterial coating, and the air permeability rate reaches 45%. The instant 3D printing system developed by Wuhan Biying Biology can complete the production of wrist braces in 15 minutes. The material weight is only 1/6 of that of plaster and is degradable.

- Complex Structure and Mechanical Optimization: Yingpu 3D has launched a solution for ankle orthotics, combining 3DeVOK MQ 3D scanning (with an accuracy of 0.08mm) and SLS nylon printing to achieve dynamic fitting and mechanical gradient support, significantly enhancing comfort.

2. Integration of Smart Braces with Technology

-A breakthrough in sports medicine: The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University has collaborated with Su Bingtian's team to develop an intelligent postoperative brace. This brace uses a mobile phone camera to dynamically capture the patient's movements and combines AI analysis to provide real-time guidance for rehabilitation training, increasing efficiency by over 30%. The system has been applied to the rehabilitation after collagen knot surgery and has been extended to complex cases such as foot and ankle injuries.

3. Advances in Materials Science

-Application of degradable materials: The starch-based composite polymer material developed by Wuhan University of Technology, which features light weight, breathability and degradability, has been used in fracture external fixation braces. The modified materials of polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) have significantly enhanced strength and toughness by adding carbon fibers or zinc oxide nanoparticles, while maintaining biocompatibility.

-Antibacterial and Comfort Optimization: Colorede has launched a low-temperature adjustable brace, which combines medical high-polymer splints with a nano-antibacterial coating to avoid the skin infection risk associated with traditional PE plastic (reducing the infection rate in summer from 37% to 0%). The edges are processed with SLS sintering technology to form 0.2mm rounded corners, reducing friction damage.