Limb Amputations and Prosthetics-Advances in Upper Extrermity Prosthetics

Advances in Upper Extrermity Prosthetics

Pdf Summary

Advances in upper extremity prosthetics have improved control, attachment, functionality, and appearance. In the past, upper extremity amputees had limited options such as body-powered hooks or passive prostheses. However, recent innovations have allowed for the development of prostheses that are more functional, versatile, and durable. Myoelectric devices offer more functionality and control with active opening and closing, but they were limited to individuals with more proximal amputations and had short battery life. The development of myoelectrically controlled digits has allowed for the creation of more lifelike and multifunctional prosthetic hands. Better mechanics and materials have also advanced passive prostheses, creating prostheses that have lockable, passively mobile joints and can replicate the appearance of a normal hand. Patients have shown interest in these advancements due to improvements in function, improved social integration, self-image, and perception by others. These advances have been made possible by funding from the US Government, which has led to the development of more advanced prosthetic limbs. Other areas of improvement in upper extremity prosthetics include mechanical enhancements, such as the development of individually powered digits and the advancement of partial hand prosthetics, and improvements in attachment methods, such as osseointegration. The future of prosthetic limb control may come from direct central nervous system control or from peripheral nervous system control via targeted reinnervation or neurointegration. The full potential of prosthetic limbs will not be realized until they can confer sensibility to their users. Overall, these advancements have provided upper extremity amputees with more options and improved functionality in their prosthetic limbs.

Keywords

Advances

upper extremity prosthetics

control

attachment

functionality

appearance

myoelectric devices

prosthetic hands

passive prostheses

mechanical enhancements