“Hands for Ukraine” Project Creates 3D Printed Prostheses for Ukrainian War Amputees

Additive manufacturing has often demonstrated its capabilities in the manufacture of prostheses of all kinds, and has played a big part in helping people in need. With the devastating aftermath of the war in Ukraine, where an estimated 10,000 people have suffered amputations and over 400,000 existing amputees can no longer access care, Canadian non-profit organization Victoria Hand Project (VHP) has found a way to provide high-performance prosthetic limbs, made using 3D printing, to those in need. Working with BASF Forward AM and UltiMaker, VHP has used 3D printing to create customizable and affordable prosthetic hands to help people who have suffered the loss of a limb regain their independence. VHP’s success in Ukraine has been so significant that the organization has launched a campaign called “Hands for Ukraine” to raise money to continue manufacturing prosthetics for people in need in the country.

One of the key elements of this project is the use of BASF Forward AM’s Ultrafuse PLA PRO1 material, which offers outstanding print quality and enables the production of precise and detailed components. This not only improved the aesthetics of the prostheses, but also contributed to their functionality. The material has been carefully optimized for quality, speed, strength and reliability, exceeding performance levels achieved with conventional filaments.

Construction of the prosthesis by the Victoria Hand Project for a Ukrainian citizen

Additionally, UltiMaker’s 3D printers and software have enabled manufacturers to achieve consistent 3D printing quality. Furthermore, the selected equipment is easy to use, which is especially important for clinicians who have no prior experience with 3D printing technology. Combining the properties of Ultrafuse PLA PRO1 material with the reliability of UltiMaker 3D printers has enabled VHP to produce high-quality prosthetic hands that meet exacting requirements and provide wearers with confidence in their daily lives.

“By harnessing the print quality and mechanical properties of Forward AM Ultrafuse PLA PRO1 in addition to the exceptional dependability from UltiMaker, Victoria Hand Project creates prosthetic hands that not only meet functional requirements, but also empower users. These hands are not only just tools; they become symbols of resilience, self-assurance, and durability in the daily lives of amputees,” says Michael Peirone, CEO of Victoria Hand Project.

In January 2023, VHP successfully completed a pilot project in Ukraine thanks to numerous donations. A member of the team traveled there to conduct initial training, set up equipment, and provide prosthetic arms to five amputees in need. Now, VHP aims to build partnerships in Ukraine by training local prosthetists and experts in 3D printing technology to print and assemble Victoria hands and distribute them to those in need as needed. The goal is to fully equip two partner facilities in Lviv and Vinnytsia with 3D printing technology and scanning tools, as well as prosthetic supply materials. If the fundraising campaign exceeds its initial goal, additional funds will be made available to further expand the reach and impact of this humanitarian project.

“We are thrilled to be a long-term partner of Victoria Hand Project and continue to support its mission to deliver prosthetic hands to people in need. With the UltiMaker 3D printing ecosystem on location, clinicians can print parts on-demand, providing better prosthetic support to their communities. By expanding access to prosthetic care with 3D printing, we believe we can help address the needs of individuals with limb loss or limb differences, promoting empowerment, inclusivity, and overall well-being,” concluded Nadav Goshen, CEO of UltiMaker. More information about the project can be found HERE.

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*Cover Photo Credits: Victoria Hand Project.