IDR 300,000 3D-Printed Crutches Pass Safety Tests, Offering an Affordable Alternative for Patients in Indonesia

A recent study reveals that forearm crutches printed using open-source 3D printers can pass the same safety tests as factory-made crutches costing hundreds of dollars. With a production cost of only around US$16.5–20 (approximately IDR 260–320 thousand), this mobility aid offers an affordable alternative for patients in developing countries, including Indonesia.

The research, published in an open-access journal, tested the replication of an openly designed two-part crutch. Four batches of crutches were printed and assembled using both virgin and recycled filaments, on both small and large format 3D printers. Following visual inspection, mechanical static load testing was conducted according to applicable primary standards. The results showed that the crutches exhibited comparable durability and consistent failure patterns under extreme loads, regardless of the printer type or filament used.

According to the researchers, these findings confirm that open-source designs for mobility aids can be widely replicated without significant quality degradation. "As long as basic guidelines are followed, the results remain reliable," they stated in the report. The study also emphasizes the importance of considering replication aspects from the early stages of open hardware design, allowing local manufacturers in various regions to adapt to local conditions.

For Indonesia, this innovation has the potential to reduce dependence on expensive imported mobility aids. Currently, most crutches and walking aids are still imported, leading to market prices that can reach millions of rupiah. With 3D printing, community health centers (puskesmas) or social organizations in remote areas can produce their own crutches at a much lower cost, provided adequate 3D printers and filaments are available.

However, adoption challenges remain. Technical training and quality assurance are needed to ensure that the produced items are safe for use. The government, through the Ministry of Health, can encourage the certification of these open-source designs to meet national medical device standards. Furthermore, collaboration with maker communities and universities can accelerate technology transfer to areas in need.

"The replication of this design paves the way for the production of affordable aids that can be adapted to local needs, especially in countries with limited resources," wrote the researchers.

Looking ahead, this approach is not only applicable to crutches but also to various other aids such as wheelchairs, simple prosthetics, or hearing aids. If the distributed manufacturing ecosystem continues to grow, it is not impossible for Indonesia to become one of the centers for open-source medical device production in Southeast Asia. The question is, are domestic regulations and industry ready to seize this opportunity?