A narrative review: current upper limb prosthetic options and design

Abstract

Purpose: This review was conducted to provide an overview of current literature as it relates to upper limb difference, available componentry, and prosthetic options and design. Emerging technologies combined with an increased awareness of the limb difference community have contributed to recent advancements in upper extremity prosthetics.

Methods: A search of five major clinical databases utilizing keywords relating to upper limb prostheses, componenty and limb difference levels resulted in over 1200 articles. These articles were subjected to inclusion and exclusion criteria in order to identify current peer reviewed research relevant to this topic.

Results: Fifty-five applicable articles and sources of standards were reviewed based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, presenting five general options for prosthetic intervention. This information was assimilated and categorized in this article, which provides an overview of the aforementioned options.

Conclusion: While a noteworthy amount of research focuses on technological advancements, the five options for prosthetic intervention are inherently represented in the current literature. For individuals with upper limb difference, as well as their care team, successful rehabilitation hinges on awareness of new components, the functional efficacy of these components, and the evolved techniques used in prosthetic design and fabrication. It is noted that the rapid evolution of upper limb prosthetics consistently outpaces research and publication of information.

Implications for rehabilitation

• To provide an overview of prosthetic design considerations and options to help create a more informed rehabilitation team, leading to improved outcomes in prescription and management of upper limb prosthetics.

• To bring awareness of current research in the field of upper limb prosthetics in order to provoke further exploration of the efficacy of prosthetic options and design considerations.

Keywords:

• Upper limb
• amputation
• prosthesis
• prosthetic options
• design
• rehabilitation

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Kerstin Baun, Kimberly Konston, Nathan Kearns and Julian Wells for their assistance in writing and technical editing of the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

The mention of commercial products, their sources, or their use in connection with material reported herein is not to be construed as an actual or implied endorsement of such products by Department of Health and Human Services.

Additional information

Funding

This work was sponsored by the Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) BTO under the auspices of Dr. Al Emondi through the [Space and Naval Warfare Systems Centre, Pacific OR DARPA Contracts Management Office] Grant/Contract No. N66001-17C-4060.