The art and science of orthosis manufacturing has improved progressively in the last decades within small cycles. However, correct handling of the most demanding cases such as Scoliosis and Kyphosis is either overpriced, substandard or even non-existent depending on your location.
In Kimedix, we provide our partners components of an entire turn-key manufacturing system, know-how, and training to enable on site manufacturing of gold standard spinal braces for a fraction of the time and cost.
Kimedix's turn-key manufacturing systems include 3D brace libraries, 3D design software with artificial intelligence decision support systems and 3D printing solutions to provide the most reliable and efficient trunk brace manufacturing.
Clinical Workflow
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of scoliosis and Kyphosis should be made by an Orthopedic or physical therapy and rehabilitation doctor, who is an expert in the field of conservative treatment. This is done by the doctor evaluating the x-ray of the spine looking at the clinical picture of the patient and using a Scoliometer to measure the rotation of the trunk. If the bone development (risser scale), Cobb Angle and rotation of the spine is suitable for conservative treatment the patient is then referred it to a Orthopedic Workshop specializing in Scoliosis, by the doctor. The orthotist who is an expert in his field, then classifies the curvature in accordance with the Cheneau classification and continues with the selection of the appropriate base model from our KiMedix software.
3D Scanning
With the iPad, 3D scanning apparatus and 3D scanning software developed by our company, the patient's body is transferred to the 3D software environment in the most practical and fastest way possible, without touching the patient's body. Photographs of the patient are taken at various angles and positions to receive an optimal clinical picture of the patients rotation.
C.A.D.
The CPO enters the patients body scan and measuremts into the KImedix 3d software during which a 3d base model is chosen in accordance with the patients data. The 3d brace model is designed to be the most suitable for each unique patient, with the CPO being able to perfect the standard model by adjusting pressure points, gravity line, rotation, and pelvic tilt.
3D Manufacturing
After the design of the personalized brace is completed the data will then be transferred to the KImedix 3d printer that was specially developed for fast and easy manufacturing. This process is completed in an average of 7-10 hours with an extruder designed and developed by KImedix in order to make the brace suitable for the patient to wear. When the 3d printer is finished printing the personalized brace, the CPO removes and prepares the brace for fitting on the patient.
Treatment
During the fitting the CPO (trained by one of KImedix experts) adapts the brace to the patients body for a perfect fit all the while, taking into account the biomechanics of the brace and patients spinal deformity by using pads to increase pressure or give a more wider flatter surface pressure. After a period of about 2 hours the CPO cuts ad smooths the Thermoplastic material (KImedix PE) for a better and more comfortable fit for each individual patient. After a period of approximately 10 weeks the doctor will prescribe an in-brace x-ray, which will show the doctor and CPO where and to which affect the 3d pressure is having on the spinal deformity. With a before and after picture to see any change on the patients clinical picture the doctors and CPO will then take this information together with the in brace x-ray and make any necessary adjustments to the brace if needed.
Schroth Chêneau Brace Library
Due to the decades of experience invested into standardized brace models, we make sure that each specific curve pattern is treated with the same biomechanical principles.
The basic library is coherent with the Schroth method and consists of 5 Chêneau type scoliosis braces, 2 Kyphosis braces, and one symmetrical post op-brace.
We also enable our partners to parameterize their own designs and ideas by developing custom software solutions.
Artificial Intelligence
The KI (künstlich Intelligenz) in Kimedix is the German word for Artificial Intelligence and was developed with the aim of enhancing and supporting the decision making capabilities of the user. This results in the systematic improvement of non-surgical treatment outcomes and speeds up the time used in formulating a treatment plan for professionals.
Brace Classification AI
This state of the art model is trained with patient trunk 3d scans which are processed with 3d geometry algorithms and deep learning to make sure that correct brace models are selected for each individual patient.
Risser AI
The Risser scale is a grading system used to assess skeletal maturity. In scoliosis, the Risser scale is used to determine the potential for further progression of the spinal curvature. The Risser scale is often used in conjunction with other measurements and assessments to determine the appropriate treatment plan for scoliosis patients. Risser Ai is a deep neural network trained for assessing the skeletal maturity of the patient.
Cobb Measurement AI
The Cobb angle is a crucial measurement used in the diagnosis and treatment of scoliosis, providing valuable information to doctors and specialists in determining the severity of the curvature and making treatment decisions; however intraobserver variability may cause misdiagnosis and misevaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment. Cobb Ai is a deep neural network trained for detecting vertebra corners or centroids with ease and precision.
Brace Prediction AI
The brace prediction AI is a great tool for standardizing and significantly reducing CAD processes, it learns from the 3D relationship between the patient anatomy and the final (submitted) trunk braces. This feature predicts a brace design originating from similar cases and enables the CAD designer to sturt designing from a 80% finished design.
Personalization
3D Printer
The Kimedix’s 3D printing solutions are designed to minimize man hours as well as multiple processes of conventional manufacturing associated with carving, thermoforming, and waste management saving valuable assets to be used elsewhere. The Kimedix industrial 3D printer is equipped with proprietary pellet extruder and a custom thermoplastic material that is easy to cut, grind, and polish with conventional routing machines.
The Kimedix’s 3D printing solutions are designed to minimize man hours as well as multiple processes of conventional manufacturing associated with carving, thermoforming, and waste management saving valuable assets to be used elsewhere. The Kimedix industrial 3D printer is equipped with proprietary pellet extruder and a custom thermoplastic material that is easy to cut, grind, and polish with conventional routing machines.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Method | Pellet Extrusion |
| Slicer | Kimedix |
| Material | Kimedix PP |
| Brace Print Time | 6 to 9 hours |
| Printer Volume | 120 x 90 x 170 cm |
| Print Volume | 55 x 55 x 75 cm |
| Weight | 195 kg |
| Temperature Control | 3 zone |
| Nozzle Diameter | 3.0 / 3.5 / 4.0 mm |
| Extruder Temperature | 0 - 280 °C |
Training
KiMedix Announces Strategic Partnership with ISST to Revolutionize Orthotic Solutions for Scoliosis Patients
ISST, known for its comprehensive and individualized approach to scoliosis treatment, offers a highly effective method for managing scoliosis through non-surgical means. The Schroth method has been globally recognized for its success in improving the quality of life for scoliosis patients through specific exercises and postural corrections. This collaboration aims to integrate KiMedix’s advanced orthotic technologies with ISST’s renowned scoliosis treatment and training methodologies to enhance patient care and outcomes.
CONTACT
KImedix GmbH
Adress: Binger Landstrasse 5 55569 Monzingen
Germany
E-mail : info@kimedix.de
Phone : +49 170 5734431