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 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.
Video 1 (1.9M) |
Video 2 (3.4M) |
