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Cornerstone Attends the 2024 OTWorld Conference

Updated: Jun 6

The recent OTWorld conference gathered the brightest minds and the latest advancements in orthopedics and prosthetics worldwide. The 4-day event is the world's largest and most significant get-together for manufacturers, retailers, and service providers in modern orthopedic treatment and care. Dave Hughes and Nate Schmetter attended from Cornerstone and agreed that this conference lived up to its reputation by delivering enlightening lectures and presenting groundbreaking exhibits. At the OTWorld Conference, professionals seek the newest trends, innovations, and insights into the future of patient care and rehabilitation. The conference illuminated the path forward for many in the industry with an expansive range of topics covered.


Europe Leading the Way in Prosthetic Innovation


Throughout the conference, it became increasingly clear that Europe holds a leading position in osteointegration and the 3D printing of prosthetics. This disparity illuminates an opportunity for the U.S. to bridge the gap and embrace these forward-thinking practices.


The advancements didn't stop at printing parts or sockets; the conference showcased the development of fully printed neuro PDE, boasting complete flexibility and ushering in a new era for prosthetic functionality. Moreover, the introduction of 3D-printed cosmetic covers for prosthetics marks an exciting merge of form and function, allowing users to personalize their prosthetics like never before.


Beyond the technical advancements, the conference also showcased innovations in related fields, such as specialized shoes, Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO), Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses (KAFO), and even 3D printed covers that add a level of customization and aesthetic appeal previously unattainable.


The most surprising showcase that Dave and Nate witnessed at the OTWorld conference was the development of technology that adjusts liner volume based on the user's location and body metrics such as heart rate and body temperature. This adaptability underscores a trend towards highly personalized, responsive prosthetic care, promising a future where prosthetics seamlessly integrate with the user's lifestyle and physiological needs.





Advancements in Prosthetic Technology: A Leap Forward


At the heart of the conference, Dave and Nate from Cornerstone had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the latest innovations in prosthetic technology. However, Nate and Dave highlighted the event with insights gained from a visit to Copenhagen and an introduction to an innovator named Yohn. Yohn's work in 3D-printed braces highlighted the accelerated shift towards 3D printing in prosthetics—a movement catalyzed significantly by the global COVID-19 pandemic. With conventional supply chains disrupted, the demand for locally produced, customizable prosthetic solutions saw a significant surge, driving the adoption of 3D printing technologies.


With nine 3-D printers, two large dehumidifiers to hold the filament, and over 50 people now trained in 3-D printing, Yohn's practice treats patients in hospitals, their homes, and local doctors' offices, bringing patient care to where it's needed.




Bottom Line


The OTWorld conference provided a rare glimpse into the future of prosthetics and orthopedics, underlining the significant technological strides used to better treat patients facing limb loss or limb difference. Dave and Nate's experiences underscore these innovations' potential to revolutionize the industry, making it an exciting time for professionals and users alike. As the world continues to navigate the post-pandemic world, the adaptability and advancements showcased at the conference offer a clear direction forward. The promise of more personalized, adaptive prosthetic solutions is on the horizon, with 3D printing at the forefront.

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