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In the ever-changing world of prosthetics, staying ahead of the game is a must. At MedSupply Corporation in Troy, Michigan, Clinical Director and Prosthetist Mike Smith is dedicated to doing just that. With over two decades of experience in the field, Mike's desire for innovation has led him to dive into the promising world of 3D printing.
Mike has eagerly awaited the opportunity to integrate 3D printing into his practice. “I’ve been interested in 3D printing for many years now since it first came out, knowing that it would have an application in prosthetics,” Mike said of his long-time excitement for the promising technology.
When Mike finally connected with the CEO of Protosthetics, Darren Jacoby, he knew it was time to jump on board. He officially adopted the Galileo program in June of 2023 and had the printer installed and printing in under an hour. The MedSupply team completed 10 designs in their first month and have finished over 100 prints over the last 10 months.
Since taking the dive, he has been sold on the technology and how it can improve their process. Speaking of the perks of integrating 3D printing into their routine, Mike said, “Galileo has really helped with our workflow. We mainly have our test sockets printed from the Protosthetics 3D printer. This has really freed up our technician to be able to focus on laminated finished products.”
“Galileo has really helped with our workflow. We mainly have our test sockets printed from the Protosthetics 3D printer. This has really freed up our technician to be able to focus on laminated finished products.”
The Galileo program not only streamlines operations but also fuels Mike and his team's appetite for innovation. Among Galileo's available products, cosmetic covers stand out as a notable advantage. Cosmetic covers adorn the pylon, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the prosthetic limb and sitting on top of the footshell.
While MedSupply has printed a few BK covers, Mike’s team is all about pushing the limits and dreaming up new ways to improve prosthetics. "We've been dabbling with printing easily removable covers. Although we haven’t been able to achieve a sellable product yet, I am still hoping in the future that this will be something we can provide to patients.”
Continuously striving to enhance their offerings, the Galileo team plans to introduce AK covers this quarter and integrate a cover fitting directly into the footshell for a sleeker look. Mike has used the Galileo team’s flexibility for evolution to actively contribute ideas for their product roadmap. “The staff at Protosthetics is very helpful and accommodating,” he mentioned, “even when asking for something that’s not possible yet.”
“The staff at Protosthetics is very helpful and accommodating,” he mentioned, “even when asking for something that’s not possible yet.”
Coordinating & overseeing the prosthetic care of amputees requires creativity and ambition, which Mike has clearly demonstrated. By collaborating with Galileo to achieve great prints and to plan for further innovation, Mike has fully adopted the 3D printing technology. He is excited to see what future advancements evolve from the Galileo 3D printer and product team.
Protosthetics was the first central fab facility in the United States to be based solely on 3D printing and CAD/CAM manufacturing. Using this technology means lower costs, shorter lead times, and repeatable, predictable quality each and every time. The introduction of the Galileo System is now bringing 3D printing revolution directly to O&P practices in a new, cost-effective way. Learn more about getting Galileo in your office by reaching out to galileo@protosthetics.com.
Bringing customers the latest DME devices and supplies with superior customer service, Med Supply strives to create a better quality of life to those with physical limitations or disabilities. Med Supply’s goal is to provide their clients with top-quality products and an unparalleled level of customer service to those they serve. Their clients are provided access to the most updated medical supplies and equipment available, and everything can be delivered right to the customer.
Annie Hockert
Protosthetics
Tel: +1-701-478-2001
Email: galileo@protosthetics.com
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