Prosthetics Industry Research

The first prosthetic limbs

The ancient Egyptians were pioneers in the field of prosthetics. Their early prosthetic devices were made from fabric and primarily served an aesthetic purpose, helping to conceal defects. Among the notable discoveries from ancient Egypt is a functional prosthetic thumb dating from 950 to 710 BC. This wooden thumb, composed of two parts, was secured with leather straps.

In ancient Greece, there is a story of a Persian fortune teller sentenced to death in 424 BC. To escape, he amputated his own leg and crafted a wooden prosthesis. Using this prosthetic limb, he successfully evaded his pursuers.

Between 476 and 1000, more complex prosthetic designs emerged, primarily serving aesthetic purposes. Knights used hand prostheses to support shields, while foot prostheses were attached to stirrups. During this period, prosthetics were generally reserved for the nobility.

In the early 16th century, Goetz von Berlichingen utilized a pair of hand prostheses operated by springs suspended from leather straps. Over time, prosthetics continued to improve. In 1536, French army surgeon Ambroise Paré developed several hinged prostheses, including a modified artificial leg that could be fixed below the knee joint. This design featured straps and a knee-locking system, elements that are still found in modern prosthetics.

In 1696, Peter Verdine developed a leg prosthesis that laid the groundwork for joint prosthetic technology. In the early 19th century, James Potts invented a prosthesis with a wooden rod, featuring a solid steel knee joint and a hinged leg secured with catgut threads. In 1846, Benjamin Palmer refined this design by adding a spring at the front to simulate natural movement.

Douglas Bly patented the anatomical leg, which proved to be both functional and successful. In 1863, Dubois Parmley advanced prosthetic design further with a prosthesis that included a suction cup and polycentric knee hinge joints. By 1912, English pilot Marcel Desutter, who had lost his leg, invented the first steel prosthesis.

Main types of prostheses

Prostheses are categorized based on various criteria. They are generally divided into two main types: functional and cosmetic. Functional prostheses are designed to actively replace some of the functions of the lost limb, providing partial restoration of its capabilities. Cosmetic prostheses, on the other hand, are primarily designed to recreate the appearance of the lost limb, serving an aesthetic purpose rather than functional use

According to the level of amputation, prosthetics of fingers, hand, forearm with elbow joint are performed, shoulder joint prostheses are installed. For the legs: prosthesis of the thigh, foot, tibia. The location affects the complexity of control.

Functional prostheses of the upper extremities

In prosthetics of the hand, 4 types of functional prostheses are distinguished:

1. Mechanical or traction — the most common due to ease of learning, maintenance, cost to functionality ratio. The forces to control the joints and fingers are supplied through a traction system from the muscles depending on the level of amputation.

2. Myoelectric or bionic — have an external power source, use the voltage of the surviving muscles from which an electrical impulse is read from the brain. The force is transmitted from the sensors to servos that allow the fingers to move or the prosthesis to bend at the joint.

3. Hybrid or combined — combines the properties of traction and myoelectric types of prosthesis. Traction is used for movement, fine motor control is realized by myoelectric sensors and servos for each finger.

4. Special — contains a special mechanism for the installation of highly specialized devices. The products enable professional activities. For example, they are fitted with strong grips for tools, sports equipment.

Bionic prosthetics receive positive feedback, high-tech provides a high level of functionality and has a huge potential for development.

Functional prostheses for lower limbs

Prosthetics of the limbs are divided into products with hinges and those without, depending on the level of amputation—whether at the thigh, shin, or foot. The knee joint, for example, has a complex design to handle significant loads and provide sufficient freedom of movement for activity

Prosthetics for the ankle and foot often include shock absorption systems and adaptation mechanisms for walking speed. Modern technologies are controlled by microprocessors that can adjust functions in real time. Other systems are passive and require training before performing various activities.

Knee joints come in single-axis and multi-axis designs, allowing for adjustments to the flexion angle and force. These knee joints can also be microprocessor-controlled or passive.

Modular mechanical prostheses are prefabricated structures made from universal components. Their size is customized based on the user's height, proportions, and level of physical activity. Knee and ankle assemblies are also adjusted to individual requirements. The foot is designed to closely mimic natural anatomical features. Special models are available for activities such as sports, running, jumping, swimming, and skiing

Current state of the prosthetics industry

Every year, more than one million patients face amputation, primarily due to trauma, diabetes, or warfare. Most people turn to prosthetics to regain a full and active lifestyle. Modern prostheses can restore normal physical activity, with advancements in robotics enabling them to mimic individual movements and transmit tactile sensations. Developers have created specialized exoskeletons that allow individuals without physical training to lift weights and enable paralyzed people to move. Additionally, scientists have developed prosthetic devices with built-in PayPass, Wi-Fi modules, and smart device switches.

Trends and development prospects

The future of prosthetics for arms and legs lies in osseointegrated bionic prostheses. These devices are surgically implanted into the bone, with one end extending transdermally beyond the limb to which the prosthesis is attached. The prosthesis is based on a biocompatible metal implant that promotes bone ingrowth, ensuring long-term mechanical stability.

Osseointegrated prosthetics have both advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages include:

• improved quality of life;

• an excellent alternative to traditional prostheses;

• functional replacement of lost limbs;

• integration into the patient's bone like a natural limb;

• reduced risk of problem areas, ulcers;

• comfortable handling.

Using osseointegrated prostheses provides the user with better control and a strong, stable connection between the bone tissue and the artificial limb. These prostheses distribute the load more evenly, which reduces pressure at the amputation site.

However, this type of prosthetic entails limitations in replacement and modernization. Successful osseointegration depends on the proper selection of materials that match the bone's characteristics. This field is actively developing, and recent years have seen significant medical progress in creating advanced functional prostheses.

Conclusion

Medical facilities, rehabilitation and prosthetics centers help to restore lost limbs and restore natural movements. Orthopedic equipment is selected individually, so that the patient feels comfortable even in the most difficult situations. For each person, the degree of activity and the need for sports are considered. Through the diligent efforts of both specialists and patients, freedom of movement and improved physical and psychological well-being are achieved.