VHP expands Access to Prosthetics in Ukraine with BASF Forward AM and UltiMaker

Canadian non-profit organization Victoria Hand Project (VHP) combines innovative materials from BASF Forward AM and robust UltiMaker 3D printers to provide high-performance prosthetics for nearly half a million amputees in war-torn Ukraine.

“By harnessing the print quality and mechanical properties of Forward AM Ultrafuse PLA PRO1 in addition to the exceptional dependability from UltiMaker, Victoria Hand Project creates prosthetic hands that not only meet functional requirements, but also empower users. These hands are not just tools; they become symbols of resilience, self-assurance, and durability in the daily lives of amputees,” states Michael Peirone, CEO of Victoria Hand Project.

VHP, founded in 2015, has already established clinical partnerships in 11 countries and built a network of dedicated professionals. Using 3D printing technology, VHP produces customized and cost-effective prosthetic arms, the Victoria Hands. For its expansion, VHP relies on trusted partners such as BASF Forward AM and UltiMaker.

Martin Back, CEO and Managing Director of Forward AM feels honored to support this project. “We are proud to partner with Victoria Hand Project and to jointly support the people in need in Ukraine. As an industry leader in 3D printing, we strive to consistently provide best-in-class materials and solutions for applications limited only by our customers’ imaginations. But the opportunity to support VHP — an organization using Additive Manufacturing to reshape the lives of amputees around the world — is something that goes beyond the day-to-day tasks of doing business. It adds a feeling of deep purpose and a stronger sense of why we do what we do. It’s not just printed plastic. It’s hope, independence, and a better quality of life,” he said.

VHP has now launched a campaign with a goal of $200,000 to support prosthetic care in Ukraine. Experts estimate that 25 to 35% of the more than 40,000 injured in the war will need amputations. These are in addition to the 400,000 amputees already in the region who have little access to prosthetics.

“We are thrilled to be a long-term partner of Victoria Hand Project and continue to support its mission to deliver prosthetic hands to people in need. With the UltiMaker 3D printing ecosystem on location, clinicians can print parts on-demand, providing better prosthetic support to their communities. By expanding access to prosthetic care with 3D printing, we believe we can help address the needs of individuals with limb loss or limb differences, promoting empowerment, inclusivity, and overall well-being,” states Nadav Goshen, CEO of UltiMaker.