Upper Limb Osseointegration

For selected transradial amputees, implants have been placed in both the ulna and radius.

Earlier Corners have presented some of the research work done by Professor Branemark to develop a method for skeletal attachment of lower limb prostheses. He has also done some experiments with upper limb amputees.

In many ways, skeletal attachment of upper limb prostheses is an attractive concept. Not only would this maximize the work envelope where the terminal device could be placed, but it would also provide superb rotary control, which is often limited in socket-based prostheses. Also, since the arms are usually non-weightbearing surfaces, the loading of the bone implant may be significantly lower than for transfemoral applications.

A myoelectrically controlled terminal device can then be attached directly to the abutments.

In the transradial application, implants are placed in both the radius and ulna. A small plastic cap is placed over the protruding abutments and then the prosthesis is clipped in place using a quick-release lever system similar to that on bicycle wheels.

In addition to the secure suspension and control that was expected, Branemark discovered another important benefit to skeletal fixation. The patients also reported a vastly improved sense of where the prosthesis was in space, and the ability to sense small vibrations from contact with objects with the prosthesis that they found helpful. Branemark terms this "osseoperception" and hypotheses that they are able to improve their proprioception due to the intimate contact directly to the skeleton.

As you can see from the video clips below, donning the prosthesis is fairly quick and easy. Researchers in Spain have also attached passive prostheses using a similar method, including silicone fingers and partial hand devices.

Reader Comments: Read all user comments Osseointegrated Finger Prosthesis Hi everyone... I'm looking for any information about " Osseointegrated Finger Prosthesis" and Doctor Manurangsee. If anyone has any information, pictures, or news paper adds... it wouldbe greatly appreciated!! You can e-mail it to: maubicch... read more - Mauro   12/6/2002 John's Corner Hi John, John's Corner looks great!! I'm sure one of the most visited sections on the site. Keep up the fantastic job...as always. I miss ya! Karen Dinsmore - Karen Dinsmore   10/8/2000 HELP!!!!! Hi everyone... I have to do a project on what Geometry has to do with prostehtics. If anyone has any nformation, pictures, or news paper adds... it wouldbe greatly appreciated!! You can e-mail it to me @ Jamizhott10@aol.com Jami - Jami Guido   9/16/2000 Re: HELP!!!!! Take a close look at these prosthetic knees: the Total Knee is a six bar mechanism, the 3R46 is a four bar mech, and the Mauch is a single axis joint. There is a LOT of geometry involved in the design of such joints, for them to swing and... read more - Juan Jose Ochoa   10/12/2004 More details on prepreg carbon fibre orthoses Andreas Wuersching is a friend and very good orthotist who has quite a bit of experience with custom made carbon fibre orthoses using prepreg materials, as highlighted in last month's Corner. He is open to sharing his experiences or answer... read more - John Michael CPO   9/1/2000