[Exoskeletal prosthetic treatment following congenital or acquired defects of the upper extremities]

The exoskeletal prosthetic care of the upper extremities poses a variety of challenges to the experienced orthopaedic technician. In addition to the clinical factors which are initially decisive, such as general condition, amputation level, condition of the stump and resilience, the patient must be given equal attention when it comes to the design of the prosthetic device. The requirement to regain physical appearance which, in most cases, approaches the same importance as retrieving the best possible motor skills, underscores the necessary variety in design options for the prosthetic device. The following article intends to demonstrate diverse options in orthopaedic care for the upper extremities. On the basis of various care examples, the requirements and individual approaches in exoskeletal prosthetic care of the upper extremities will be illustrated.