Virginia Tech Engineers Use 3D Printing to Create Life‑Changing Prosthetic Hand for Josie Fraticelli

Imagine completing everyday tasks with only one hand. How would you pour a drink, tie your shoes, or brush your teeth? These challenges were once a reality for Josie Fraticelli. After 12 years of living without a right hand, she now experiences the freedom of a fully functional prosthetic—thanks to a custom 3D‑printed device and the expertise of Virginia Tech’s engineering team.

Josie was born with Amniotic Banding Syndrome, a condition in which a fibrous band in the womb constricted blood flow to her wrist, resulting in an underdeveloped right hand. Despite this, she never let adversity define her spirit.

In a recent interview with WDBJ‑7, Josie said, "It doesn’t stop me from doing things. Even if it does, I’ll try it." Her resilience has helped her overcome teasing and bullying at school and on the bus.

The journey to a 3D‑printed hand began in 2013 when Josie’s father, Tom, started researching the technology. Although the idea sparked hope, no local manufacturer could deliver the level of customization required.

Dr. Barbara Fraticelli, Josie’s mother and a professor of Industrial & Systems Engineering at Virginia Tech, reached out to Dr. Blake Johnson, who led a team of senior students—Justin Halper, Niki Khandelwal, Alex Meholic, and rising senior Elena Karakozoff—to turn the vision into reality.

Using high‑resolution scans of Josie’s left hand and existing design libraries, the team engineered a bespoke prosthetic that fits her anatomy and performance needs. The result is a lightweight, functional hand that feels natural in daily use.

Josie’s story illustrates how the convergence of empathy, expertise, and 3D printing can transform lives. It signals a future where prosthetics are not only custom‑made but also more affordable. While a conventional prosthetic leg can cost between $5,000 and $50,000, a 3D‑printed hand can be produced for under $1,000, with materials costing only $20‑$30 per unit.

"In 15–20 years, these solutions will be created at home by families working alongside clinicians," said Dr. Johnson. "3D printing could fundamentally change how we deliver life‑changing prosthetics."

Now, Josie can pour her own soda, share fist bumps, and look forward to a brighter future. She and her support team continue to refine the prototype, adding new features and vibrant colors to enhance both function and style.