Current rates of prosthetic usage in upper-limb amputees – have innovations had an impact on device acceptance?

Abstract

The advancements of the last decade in the arena of upper limb prosthetics have not yet achieved a significant change in prosthetic abandonment within this study cohort. Although academic solutions have been presented to tackle patient's complaints, clinical reality still shows high rejection rates of cost-intensive prosthetic devices.Implications for rehabilitationAbandonment rates in prosthetic rehabilitation after upper limb amputation have shown to be 50% and higher.The advancements of the last decade in the arena of upper limb prosthetics have not yet achieved a significant change in prosthetic abandonment.Well-structured and patient-tailored prosthetic training as well as ensuring the amputee's active participation in the decision making process will most likely improve prosthetic acceptance.