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Upper limb prostheses designed for replacement of a completely missing upper limb including the clavicle and scapula (i.e., interscapulothoracic amputation). These prostheses consist of external or partially implantable devices that include socket, shoulder, elbow, wrist, connecting tube, and terminal (e.g., hands, hooks) components; they may also include other devices such as cables, electrical motors, and switches. A symmetrical shoulder is usually achieved, but straps or a wider piece on the contralateral side of the body may be used to distribute weight and to maintain the upper limb prosthesis in position when there is very little surface area in the shoulder region to support the weight of the prosthesis. A hemithoracic frame made from aluminum strips and fitted around the rib cage on the amputated side is frequently used as the mounting base for the prosthetic arm as well as for the switches. Total 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. Passive, mechanically operated, and electrically powered total upper limb prostheses are available; they are used mainly in patients who suffered amputations (i.e., forequarter amputees) due to traumatic accident or, less frequently, in patients who suffered amputations due to illness (e.g., diabetes) or who have congenital abnormalities.
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