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How do I scan inside a socket?
How do I scan inside a socket?

Scanning the inside of a socket is difficult and accuracy isn't clear and not recommended. Proceed with caution when scanning sockets.

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Written by Össur Design Studio Team
Updated over 2 years ago

**Disclaimer: Scans inside sockets cannot be validated in size using a tape measure.

Ossur Orlando will not accept inside socket scans that haven't been through the Design Studio post scan processing and gone through Mesh tools ->Flip Normals & Remesh


Practitioners are responsible for evaluating the model size prior to sending for fabrication.


If you choose to proceed -- read the best practices below:

The traditional method for socket shape capture is to use plaster bandage or tape to extend the socket, then fill the socket with plaster. After the plaster is hardened, the socket can be cut off and the model modified.

In some cases, however, cutting the socket or waiting for plaster to set isn't an option for the patient or prosthetist. In these cases, scanning the inside of the socket can be done with a few steps using a structure scanner and the Design Studio Scanning app.

Because scanning techniques vary, sizing can be inaccurate by an average of 4%. Whenever scanning an object we recommend taking hand measurements to "calibrate the model".

Step 1: Tape stockinette to the outside of the socket. Usually 6" or 8" stockinette works well.

Step 2: Put the socket inside a donning ring or some other circular container

Step 3: Reflect the stockinette over the donning ring.

Step 4: Scan the inside of the socket and upload into Design Studio. Notice all the artifacts are gone and holes are filled. This is an important step within the process and must be accomplished by uploading the scan from the Design Studio Scanner app.

Step 5: IMPORTANT: Inside Design Studio you will need to use Mesh Tools --> Flip Normals & Remesh in order to modify the model from the outside.

scanning and post scan processing:

Flip normals:

When scanning a model the post-scan processing will combine the mesh. When the mesh is combined, whatever was scanned will be the "normal" area that the software expects you want to modify. If scanning the inside of a socket, the "normals" are on the inside, so you can't select a region on the outside of the model- only the inside.

Remesh

Remesh will take the negative model and make into a positive model- much like filling a cast with plaster. This helps to ensure there are no errors or artifacts are sent to the carver.

Alternative method: Scanning the inside of a plastic test socket may be difficult because the plastic is clear. You may choose to paint the inside of the socket and scan from the outside. If so, any paint will work as will taping the inside of the socket or filling with plaster.

Scanning the inside of a clear or shiny socket can be more difficult.

Reflective, shiny objects scatter the IR pattern, confusing the sensor. This can lead to poor tracking or random, unintended artifacts. This can be mitigated by applying a temporary matte paint or powder to your object.

Maxidon CAD/CAM paint is an example of a helpful paint that can be used to help capture shapes.

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