Who says that as a maker of 3D printers, you can’t get into the manufacturing game?  Not 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD). It appears as though the company will produce and market end-use medical products thanks to its recent acquisition of Bespoke Innovations™, co-founded by Scott Summit. The company recently announced it has developed hand brace devices made from 3D printers, which it plans to launch during the second half of 2013.

Bespoke Innovations has made a name for itself in the use of 3D printing to create prosthetic limb casings wrapped in a variety of materials including embroidered leather and shimmering metal.

In musculoskeletal medicine, the challenge has been to develop less costly braces or other support structures that fit the patient. Musculoskeletal medicine accounts for approximately 30% of all acute orthopedic care including sports, industrial or job related injury and chronic conditions. Thus, this is an area where the custom build capabilities of 3D printers shine.

For hand braces, technicians can use the Bespoke integrated scan-to-print proprietary technology to build a custom fit brace that fits a patient’s lifestyle and condition.

Said Abe Reichental, President and CEO of 3D Systems, “We are thrilled to apply 3D Systems’ integrated technology to transform musculoskeletal healthcare delivery for the benefit of patients. Our commitment is to improve lives with custom exoskeleton and orthopedic devices that are personalized, streamlined, hygienic and adaptive to enhance the patient experience and return them to a productive lifestyle sooner.”

3DSystems.com

www.3Dsystems.com