The BioSculpter CAD-CAM System is the latest wave of technology to hit the prosthetics industry. The system uses computer digital technology and lasers to create a near perfect, custom fit of a socket to a residual limb. RGP is one of the first companies to have purchased BioSculptor. The most common complaint among amputees is a poorly-fitting prosthesis. Using three major components, BioSculptor CAD-CAM (computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing) increases the accuracy and efficiency of socket and frame design. We are now able to create flexible plastic sockets in a fraction of the time required by conventional laboratory methods and produce a more accurate fit than ever before.

A single system, BioSculptor consists of three major components:

THE IMAGER: A low power base laser is used to take exact measurements of a positive or a negative cast by calculating spacing between geometric slices and capturing radial distances as the model spins. These digitized measurements are then sent to a computer workstation.

THE MODIFIER: The computer workstation enables the prosthetist to make precise modifications to the image being projected on the monitor from the imager. Specially-designed software creates a 3-D model of what the mill will cut.

THE MILL: A self-contained machine that cuts the mold to the exact specifications sent to it by the modifier. From this mold, sockets are made from plastics. As an industry dependent on the hard work of skilled technicians, BioSculptor now utilizes computer technology to increase consistency, accuracy and time efficiency. Once stored in the computer memory, patients can phone for reorders, eliminating a trip to the facility for re-fitting. However, the system needs the expertise of a prosthetist to transfer their knowledge and experience into the computer. By utilizing Tom Guth's 26 years as a leader in the advancement of prosthetic design, we are able to teach the computer to design and modify in the same fashion. Todd Huston, a right below-knee amputee and nationally-known mountain climber, is one of the first to wear a prosthesis designed by BioSculptor. Huston this summer will attempt to ascend the highest peaks in Europe, then set out to conquer the world - including Mount Everest. He would become the first amputee to climb the planet's tallest mountain.