When talking about prosthetics and artificial limbs, it's important to note the differences between the various types and their specific uses. There are usually four main types to consider: transradial, transfemoral, transtibial, and transhumeral. However, other prosthetics can be used in certain conditions. We're here to explain what these prosthetic devices do and how they work.
A transradial prosthesis is an artificial arm that attaches below the elbow. A passive device of the sort serves strictly cosmetic purposes. The opposite is an active prosthesis, which comes in two forms. A cable-operated prosthetic device works using a harness that connects to the affected shoulder and the other arm, allowing the user to control the movement manually. A myoelectric prosthetic implant detects muscle movement in the upper arm via specialized sensors and moves the prosthesis, including opening and closing the hand.
A transhumeral prosthesis is an artificial arm that connects to the body above the elbow but below the shoulder. A transhumeral limb is more complicated than a transradial prosthesis due to a missing elbow, making movement more challenging and complex to compensate for. Transhumeral prosthetic devices can also be active and passive. Most modern active transhumeral prostheses use myoelectric sensors or a combination of sensors and cables to move the artificial limb.
A transtibial prosthesis is an artificial leg below the knee. Since the knee allows for a lot of movement without assistance, the prosthesis's primary function is to distribute weight accordingly and provide comfort. Patients need to be rehabilitated on walking with a transtibial prosthesis since the artificial foot usually doesn't move.
A transfemoral prosthesis is often the most challenging of the four main types. It replaces a missing leg above the knee. The artificial knee joint is controlled by hip motion, thus heavily influenced by the strength of the residual limb. A transfemoral prosthesis usually allows for seemingly normal movement and function after a lengthy rehabilitation process. A proper socket fit is essential to ensure comfort and stability.
Prosthetists can also replace missing hands and feet with partial prosthetics, which can also be active or passive depending on the needs and the budget. Active artificial hands are challenging to manufacture due to varying levels of injury and missing fingers. Not all patients are suitable recipients for an artificial hand, and a qualified medical professional needs to assess them to ensure they can be fitted with the best prosthesis.
Another type of artificial arm includes a body-powered arm attached to the remainder of the shoulder with a harness. It works similarly to a transhumeral prosthesis, with the patient's other shoulder motion manipulating the artificial limb.
Other prosthetic implants can have a purely cosmetic function. These can include artificial eyes, fingers, noses, and more.
Prosthetics have developed significantly with technological improvements. New advancements allow for prostheses that have improved range of motion and integrate more seamlessly with the body.
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