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Myoelectric prosthetic fitting in young children
Insights
Early fitting of myoelectric hand prostheses benefits young children with congenital limb differences. Careful team assessment, parent involvement, and training ensure successful integration and acceptance of these advanced prosthetic devices.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Myoelectrically controlled hand prostheses were previously deemed unsuitable for young children.
- Early prosthetic fitting for congenital limb differences in children faced significant challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and benefits of early myoelectric prosthetic fitting for young children with unilateral below-elbow congenital amputations.
- To identify key factors for successful integration and acceptance of myoelectric prostheses in pediatric amputees.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 40 young children with unilateral below-elbow congenital amputations were fitted with myoelectric prostheses.
- The study involved fitting children as young as 16 months of age.
- Data collection focused on prosthetic integration, acceptance, and influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Myoelectric prostheses demonstrated superior integration and acceptance in children compared to adults.
- Early fitting, starting at 16 months, proved successful in this cohort.
- Key factors for success included suitable stump parameters, skilled fitting teams, and comprehensive parent training.
Conclusions:
- Early fitting of myoelectric hand prostheses is a viable and beneficial intervention for young children with congenital limb differences.
- Successful outcomes depend on meticulous team-based care, including informed parental support and ongoing training.
- Psychological evaluation and prompt prosthetic maintenance are crucial for optimal pediatric prosthetic use.
Abstract:
Fitting myoelectrically controlled hand prostheses to young children has previously been considered unrealistic and even contraindicated. In 1971 the first preschool child was supplied with a myoelectric prosthesis at the Regional Hospital in Orebro, Sweden. A total of 40 young unilateral below-elbow congenital amputee children have thus far been fitted. The youngest children were 16 months of age when fitted. Such prostheses are clearly better integrated and accepted by children than by most adults. However, certain condiderations must be taken into account: the stump parameters ought to be suitable and the fitting done by a skilled team; the training must be properly followed up in close cooperation with the parents, who should be thoroughly and adequately informed; possibilities of prosthetic adjustments and rapid repairs should be mentioned; and psychological factors must be carefully evaluated. Under these conditions a very early myoelectric prosthetic fitting can be expected to greatly benefit the individual.