Functionality of i-LIMB and i-LIMB pulse hands: case report

The availability of various multiarticulated prosthetic hands makes determining differences in functionality between these hands relevant. The current study asked whether the functionality of these hands increased with time of use and whether grip force and robustness improved. A 45-year-old man with wrist disarticulation used the i-LIMB and the i-LIMB Pulse hands in a series of tests covering all functional levels as described in the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Using the i-LIMB for 1 yr improved Southampton Hand Assessment Procedure function scores. However, the i-LIMB Pulse did not improve much over 5 mo of training, possibly because of the intense training in the month prior to the first i-LIMB Pulse tests. The i-LIMB Pulse hand generally showed higher scores on the tests and better grip strength and robustness than the i-LIMB. The i-LIMB Pulse has overcome the shortcomings of the i-LIMB hand. The preset grip patterns simplified the complex control of the multiarticulated i-LIMB hand, which contributed to patient satisfaction.