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Prostheses designed for total or partial replacement of a missing upper limb. These prostheses typically consist of one or more external components; they may also include totally or partially implantable components (e.g., electrodes, sensors). The prostheses are usually fixed with a socket to the residual limb to replace the lost parts and frequently require some degree of customization. Upper limb prostheses are typically made of metal (e.g., cobalt-chromium alloys), hard plastics (e.g., polyethylene), carbon fibers, or a combination of materials. The prostheses may include other components such as cables, electrical motors, pneumatic devices, and/or electronic systems with electrodes and sensors that may be implantable and/or placed on the skin. The main components of upper limb prostheses are terminal components (e.g., hands, hooks), wrists, elbows, shoulders, and bars or rods to replace the arm or forearm. Some of the components may be used alone (e.g., hands) or combined as partial prostheses according to the level of amputation; total replacement prostheses should include all components to permit complete replacement of the limb. Passive, mechanical (e.g., patient-actuated), powered, and myoelectric upper limb prostheses are available; they are used mainly in patients who have congenital abnormalities or who suffered amputations due to illness (e.g., diabetes) or traumatic accidents.
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