A field evaluation of arm prostheses for unilateral amputees

A post-clinical investigation has been carried out among 42 unilateral amputees who lost their hand due to an accident. The investigation was directed at two main topics of interest. Firstly the amputee, the problems he has to cope with, and the role the prosthesis plays in his life; and secondly the prosthesis, its use and its potential benefits and burdens. The group of amputees consisted of above-elbow and below-elbow amputees. Body powered as well as myoelectric prostheses were represented in the group. Most of the information was obtained during a two-day home visit where a semi-structured interview was conducted, and where a number of daily life activities were observed. The information thus obtained has led to a number of conclusions and recommendations with respect to the rehabilitation of this category of amputees, and with respect to the design criteria of prostheses for unilateral amputees.