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Types of Prosthetics

The field of prosthetics deals with the artificial replacement of human body parts. Prosthetic devices are typically used after surgery or amputation to provide mobility or aesthetic appearance, or both. More recently, uses have expanded to include treatment of diseases and injuries. The oldest known prosthetic devices, such as those found on Egyptian mummies in 710 BC, were made of papier-mâché and wood. Today, different types of prosthetics are made with life-like precision and ultra-modern materials.

  1. Prosthetic Cosmesis

    • Cosmesis is the term used to describe the fine art of making artificial limbs resemble their human counterparts. Life-like limbs can now be manufactured from silicone. Artificial hands and feet can mimic movement and be made to feel and look like skin. Cosmesis limbs are form-fitting, attached by suction with adhesives and tailored to each individual. Such artificial limbs offer incredible custom detail, duplicating a person's pigmentation, veins, freckles and nails.

    Transradial, Transhumeral and Transtibial

    • A transradial prosthesis replaces an arm missing below the elbow. A transhumeral prosthesis replaces an arm missing above the elbow. Common types use metal, plastic shells and hooks.

      A transtibial prosthesis replaces a leg missing below the knee. A transfemoral prosthesis replaces a leg missing above the knee.

    Neuroprosthetics

    • Neuroprosthetics is an emerging medical field being tested to assist with brain- related diseases and conditions. Neuromotor implanted devices can affect brain control of muscles, while neurocognitive devices can assist with thinking, memory and language skills. Patients with head trauma, autism and brain chemistry disorders such as schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease may be able to use neuroprosthetics to help control symptoms.

    Sensory and Cosmetic Implants

    • Hearing implants make it possible for people with profound hearing loss to process sound and learn speech. A device known as a cochlear implant has a portion positioned behind a person's ear, while another part is surgically placed under the skin. Parts include a microphone, speech processor and transmitter and receiver that converts sound to electric impulses. Electrodes collect the impulses, which are sent to different regions of the auditory nerve.

      Penile implants correct male erectile dysfunction, which results from traumatic injury. Implanted artificial teeth can restore a smile. Breast prostheses are used after mastectomy to restore a healthy body image for women.

    Robotics and Bionics

    • Prosthetics has a burgeoning area of study that uses implanted and computer-monitored biosensors similar to those used in robotics. These sensors detect brain, nerves and muscular signals to control artificial limbs. Computer-controlled body suits, attached to surgically implanted sensors, can help those with spinal cord injuries walk. These body-suit devices are still in the experimental stage.

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