A Narrative Review of Prosthesis Design Decision Making After Lower-Limb Amputation for Developing Shared...

Area of Science:

• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomedical Design

Background:

• Prosthesis design involves initial fabrication and ongoing adjustments throughout a user's life.
• Numerous factors influence prosthesis design decisions, including user-specific needs, design options, resource availability, and environmental context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on the lower-limb prosthesis design process.
• To identify factors influencing prosthesis design decision-making.
• To support prosthesis users' active participation in shared decision-making regarding their prosthesis design.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of available scientific literature.
• Synthesis of information on prosthesis fabrication and adjustment processes.
• Analysis of factors impacting design choices.

Main Results:

• The prosthesis design process is iterative, involving initial fabrication and lifelong adjustments.
• Design decisions are influenced by a complex interplay of individual user characteristics, available prosthetic options, resource limitations, and environmental factors.
• Foundational information is provided to facilitate user involvement in design decisions.

Conclusions:

• Empowering prosthesis users with information on design processes and influencing factors is crucial for shared decision-making.
• Further research is recommended to explore the temporal aspects of design decisions, prosthesis modifications over time, and the impact of user's physical and life changes on design.
• Enhanced user participation can lead to more personalized and effective lower-limb prosthesis solutions.