In an effort to spread knowledge and develop connections with other universities, the College of Engineering and Information Technology, Department of Medical Devices Engineering Technologies at AlShaab University hosted a panel discussion entitled “The Importance of Advancing the Manufacture of Artificial Limbs, Supports and Rehabilitation Devices in Iraq” on Saturday, April 29, 2023.
In attendance were Dr. Youssef Khalaf Youssef, AlShaab University president, several faculty members from AlShaab University as well as from public universities, and a group of university students.
Prof. Dr. Iyad Murad Takhakh from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Al-Nahrain University gave an extensive lecture in which he presented general information on the subject of artificial limbs and supports, their types, and the possibility of manufacturing them inside Iraq. He gave an overview of the types of amputations, and discussed the type of technology needed to manufacture appropriate prosthetics, with special attention given to the aesthetics, as this is an important psychological benefit. He stressed the need for government support in this field as it would allow for cooperation among specialized colleges and departments and facilitate concerted efforts to advance the prosthetic industry. He further noted that government support would have a direct impact on the lives of amputees and the disabled and help them achieve their goals and aspirations.
Dr. Youssef Khalaf Youssef delivered a speech in which he appreciated the efforts made to hold such seminars which advance scientific and practical knowledge. He highlighted the great interest and seriousness of the students in attendance who gained valuable insights into the industry of prosthetic limb manufacturing and medical devices in general.
The symposium came out with several recommendations. First, the Higher Committee for Industrial Limbs and Supports should include a specialist from the Ministry of Industry and Minerals among its members, and add a representative of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research so that the committee can develop strategies for the advancement of the prosthetics industry.
Second, the Ministry of Industry and Minerals should establish and restructure one of its holdings to be a factory specialized in manufacturing various components of industrial limbs and supports, and to attract specialists in this field.
Third, training and development of students' skills in relevant departments should be organized in a scientific and practical manner.
The fourth recommendation is forming research teams that include various specializations in the field of designing and manufacturing various components used in prosthetics and providing them with laboratory and material support in order to raise the scientific and research level in this field.
Fifth, a research center specialized in the field of prosthetic limbs and supports should be established. The center would focus on the design, development of materials, and the manufacture of applicable industrial models.
Sixth, the panel recommended adopting a statistical system, and coding the parts, tools, and locally assembled and imported products, to ensure control over supply and demand.
Appreciation certificates were distributed to the professors and faculty members who participated in the panel discussion
