Victoria Hand Project offers advanced and low cost 3D printed prostheses for developing countries

An ongoing project called the Victory Hand, by a team of researchers from the Canadian University of Victoria is specifically developing a mechanical prosthetic for amputees in Guatamala and Nepal, with other countries hopefully following soon. It partnered with Range of Motion Project in Zacapa, Guatemala and the Nepal Orthopedic Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.  

 Image credit: VHP

For people missing an upper limb, not having a prosthetic is a major disability affecting the quality of life. Everyday tasks we take for granted, such as tying shoelaces, eating with a fork and knife, or using a zipper are difficult for amputees. Missing limbs can lead to social exclusion and difficulty in gaining meaningful employment.

The availability of prosthetic devices is extremely limited in developing countries, yet the demand there is the greatest.   

The Victoria Hand Project (VHP) is focused on providing amputees with access to a very low-cost, highly functional, customized, 3D printed upper-limb prosthesis.

They use advanced, yet cost-effective tools such as 3D printing and 3D laser scanning, to create innovative devices. With such prostheses, amputees can regain function to improve their quality of life and may increase their access to employment opportunities.

  Image credit: VHP  

“Amputees are not disabled by a missing limb, but by a missing prosthesis.” – ROMP. 8 out of 10 people in need of prosthetic care live in developing countries. VHP establishes 3D Print Center in a developing country, equipping it with all the tools necessary to make 3D printed prosthetics, and employs and trains a full-time technician from the local community. It provides training, cutting-edge technology, and technical support to developing countries.

The Victoria Hand has been equipped with many features found in modern-day, high-cost prosthetics. With an innovative wrist design, custom fit socket, and highly capable hand design, the Victoria Hand Prosthesis can rival the leading prosthetics on the market today.   

Your support and donation to this mission will help millions of people around the world. Explore further in Victoria Hand Project