[A myoelectric prosthesis for the forearm amputee]

The authors make a revision of the principles of action of the myoelectric prosthesis for the forearm amputees and describe their components. The indications and contra-indications (French law) are also referred. We can say as a conclusion that the great progress made in prosthesis in the last years were possible on account of synthetic materials and the use of electronics and miniaturised computers. However, their functional possibilities are remote when compared with the human hand. The high costs of this prosthesis are one limitation to its prescription.