Abstract ID: 26-137
Reproducibility & Reliability: Validation of a Novel, Low-Cost, Disposable 3D Printed Modified Exophthalmometer
Author: Jacob Miles Tanco Base Hospital / Institution: Cebu Doctors University Hospital
Presentation Type: ePoster Presentation
Purpose
This modified Hertel exophthalmometer is my own novel design that improves on the original design through the application of 3D printing techniques and technology by optimizing ergonomics and providing affordable reproducibility while maintaining acceptable reliability. This study aims to assess the non-inferiority of this device when compared to values obtained from the Hertel exophthalmometer.
Methods
The modified exophthalmometer was completely designed and fabricated in the Philippines with an FDM 3D printer, a 5W diode laser engraver, polylactic acid filament and acrylic mirrors using designs created with computer-aided design software. The study design is a non-experimental, correlational study done in Cebu Doctors University Hospital, Cebu City, Philippines during October 2025 to November 2025 with patients aged 18-50 years old and able to maintain fixation at a distant target. Measurements of both eyes taken using the standard and the modified exophthalmometer were compared using a t-test for paired observation. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
A total of 122 patients underwent exophthalmometry. Standard Hertel exophthalmometer measurements had a mean of 15.12±1.62 left eye and 15.13±1.64 right eye. Modified exophthalmometer measurements had a mean of 15.08±1.67 left eye and 15.09±1.68 right eye. These numerical values underwent a t-test for paired observation and were found to have no significant difference with p-value=0.0876 for the left eye and p-value=0.0884 for the right eye.
Conclusion
The novel 3D printed modified Hertel exophthalmometer is a viable cost-effective and accurate alternative to the more expensive standard Hertel exophthalmometer at less than 1% cost versus retail value. With the nature of rapid open-source driven innovation in the world of 3D printing, this may yet serve to inspire prototypes for subsequent innovation led by other end-users like myself. The potential of 3D printing is limitless; I aim to inspire and empower those of us who dream with the respectful dissatisfaction inherent with the hunger of invention, to innovate.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan | del Prado | Cebu Doctors University Hospital |
| Dave Michael | Oyas | Cebu Doctors University Hospital |
| Luisa Maria | Ko | Cebu Doctors University Hospital |