M4D Scanner

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Department is home to one of the most cutting-edge pieces of technology in our hospital and was the first in the United States to acquire the M4D Scan. The M4D Scan​ is a portable device that uses white light to capture the precise body contours needed to create orthotic and prosthetic devices. This technology eliminates the need for messy casting sessions for many patients.

The scanner’s white light is harmless and replaces the laser many other scanners use. When the light is projected at a body, an image is sent through the scanner to a computer, where a 3D image of the body is created. These images are then saved in our database so they can later be used to gauge patients’ progress over time. Medical research is an important part of the mission at Lurie Children’s, and the M4D Scan is used to facilitate research studies here at the hospital.

The M4D Scan works quickly, which means that patients no longer need to hold still in casts for long periods of time. The scans give more accurate dimensions and measurements than casting.