Prosthetics – Device Types

• Upper extremity
• Lower extremity 
• Partial hand/foot
• Sport/recreational devices

An upper extremity prosthetic device is designed to replace or aid the residual arm with daily motor functions. There are three main types of prosthetics that are categorized based on the level of amputation the patient has. If the patient has an above the elbow amputation, we will prescribe a trans-humeral device. If the patient has a below the elbow amputation, we will prescribe a trans-radial device. Lastly, if the patient has a partial hand or finger amputation, we will prescribe a wrist disarticulation device. Prosthetic devices like these are usually prescribed for daily use (myo-electric, conventional, and cosmetic) or for specific recreational activities like kayaking or playing tennis! For individuals with significant limb length discrepancies extension prostheses are available.

• Trans-radial
• Trans-humeral
• Wrist-disarticulation
• Shoulder disarticulation 
• Cosmetic hand 
• Recreation/sport device

For daily use devices, there are three main categories of devices to choose from: myo-electric, conventional, and cosmetic. A myo-electric hand is powered with batteries and functions off of the individual’s muscle signals. These have varying complexities from a simple open and close grip to upwards of 20 different pre-set grip patterns. For a conventional or body powered device, the grip is powered by the individuals exaggerated movements of their residual limb. Lastly, a cosmetic device is simply used to achieve the individual’s aesthetic goals. There are also myo-electric, conventional and cosmetic options for wrist, elbow and shoulder devices.

A lower extremity prosthetic device is designed to replace or aid the residual leg with daily motor functions. There are four main types of prosthetics that are categorized based on the level of amputation the patient has. If the patient has an above the knee amputation, we will prescribe a trans-femoral prosthetic device. If the patient has a through the knee amputation (has knee movement) we will prescribe a knee-disarticulation device. If the patient has a below the knee amputation, we will prescribe a trans-tibial device. These devices can be prescribed for daily use, or can have specific needs, like for swimming or running. For individuals with significant limb length discrepancies extension prostheses are available. 

• Trans-femoral
• Trans-tibial
• Knee disarticulation
• Hip disarticulation 
• Symes (through the ankle)
• Rotation plasty/van nes 
• Partial foot
• Recreation/sport device 

For individuals with an above the knee amputation, a knee and ankle component will be needed. There are both conventional and micro-processor controlled components which are either powered via body movements, or muscle signals and computer programming.