Exploring how 3D printed prostheses affect brain activity in children
Official title: The Influence of 3D Printed Prostheses on Neural Activation Patterns of the Primary Motor Cortex in Children With Unilateral Congenital Upper-limb Reductions
Run by University of Nebraska · NCT04110730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how using 3D printed prosthetic arms affects brain activity in children with upper-limb differences compared to typically developing kids.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 3 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Nebraska Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Omaha, Nebraska) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 10, 2020 |
| Main results expected | August 2030 |
| Study ends | August 2030 |
| Registry record updated | October 19, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04110730 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children aged 3 to 18 with upper limb deformities or missing digits.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recent upper extremity injuries or medical conditions that contraindicate prosthetic use may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the neural activation patterns in children using 3D printed prostheses for upper-limb deformities. It aims to enroll 40 children aged 3 to 18, including those with congenital upper-limb reductions and a control group of typically developing children. Participants will undergo 3D scanning and fitting of the prosthesis, followed by assessments of motor performance and brain activity using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The goal is to enhance understanding of how prosthesis use influences motor cortex activity and to inform rehabilitation strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation programs that reduce prosthesis rejection and enhance motor performance in children.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific use of 3D printed prostheses in this context is novel, related studies have shown promise in understanding neural activation patterns in prosthesis users.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 3-18 years. * Individuals missing any digits, hand, arm, shoulder. * Any dysfunction of the upper limbs. Exclusion Criteria: * Participants who are outside of age range. * Participants with upper extremity injury within the past month. * Medical conditions which would be contraindications to wear a prosthetic or assistive device, Such as skin abrasions and musculoskeletal injuries in the upper limbs.
Where it's running
-
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, Nebraska, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jorge M Zuniga, PhD — University of Nebraska
- Study coordinator: Jorge M Zuniga, PhD
- Email: jmzuniga@unomaha.edu
- Phone: 402-429-1288
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.