What Is a Prosthesis?
A prosthesis is a medical device used to support the function and appearance of a limb that is congenitally absent or that has been lost after the surgical removal of a limb (amputation) due to causes such as injury, tumor surgery or vascular disease. The aim is to help the person regain mobility and return to activities of daily living. A correctly configured device may contribute to the person's independence and quality of life.
Unlike knee or hip endoprostheses, prostheses are not surgically implanted into the limb; they are worn by being attached to the person's residual (remaining) limb. Prosthetic applications are planned in line with the relevant specialist physician's assessment and medical report. The fitting process is carried out with the contribution of technicians and physiotherapists trained in the field.
Types of Prostheses
According to their purpose, prostheses can generally be considered in two groups:
- Functional prostheses: Designed to imitate the movement and function of the lost limb.
- Cosmetic (aesthetic) prostheses: Focus on restoring the natural appearance and volume of the limb; they are generally silicone-based applications.
According to the type and level of the lost limb, the main groups are:
- Lower limb prostheses: Applications for the foot, knee and hip areas
- Upper limb prostheses: Applications for the arm and hand area
In the lower limb, prostheses are named according to the joint level at which the loss occurred. Groupings such as hip disarticulation for losses at hip level, above-knee at above-knee level, below-knee at below-knee level and foot prostheses for losses at foot level are used.
Prostheses cover a wide range, from simple mechanical or body-powered devices to electronic systems designed to imitate the movement of a natural limb. They are generally made from lightweight and durable materials and are planned individually according to the person's anatomical structure and activity level.
Main Components of Lower Limb Prostheses
Lower limb prostheses (prosthetic legs) are among the most common types of prostheses. In addition to fully mechanical options, there are also microprocessor-controlled knee joints that support a more natural gait by controlling movement. The main components are:
- Prosthetic foot: Regardless of above-knee or below-knee level, this is the load-bearing component that affects the performance of the whole prosthesis.
- Knee joint: Can be mechanical or microprocessor-controlled; it aims to support safety during the stance and swing phases of gait.
- Socket: A key component that connects the prosthesis to the residual limb. Correct fit can make the difference between pain-free movement and daily life being negatively affected. Different methods are available for securing the limb.
Upper Limb Prostheses
Upper limb prostheses (prosthetic arms and hands) vary widely in design and function. Simple cosmetic hands can be designed to imitate the appearance of a natural hand without taking on function. Other, more complex solutions can be controlled by body movements or by detecting muscle signals (myoelectric control). The choice of device varies according to the person's level of amputation and goals of use.
Children's Prostheses
Pediatric prostheses are designed to support children in playing safely, taking part in sports and continuing daily activities. Devices for different age groups, from infancy to adolescence, are adapted individually to take growth and lifestyle into account. They are generally lightweight and compact, and made from durable materials that aim to provide comfort, safety and freedom of movement. Microprocessor-controlled knee joints designed for children also aim to contribute to safer and more natural movement in daily life.
The Difference Between an Orthosis and a Prosthesis
An orthosis is a device used to stabilize, protect or correct an area of the body that is present but needs support. A prosthesis, on the other hand, is intended to replace a missing limb. Knee or ankle orthoses can be given as examples of these applications. Both devices are assessed individually in line with the specialist physician's prescription.
What Is Considered When Choosing a Prosthesis
The following factors are assessed in determining the appropriate device:
- The person's age and general health
- Daily activity and mobility level
- The condition of the remaining part of the body (residual limb)
- The person's physical and psychological condition
- The anatomical structure of the relevant area
These assessments help ensure that the device suits the person's needs. Determining, measuring and adapting the appropriate device is always carried out by authorized healthcare professionals in line with the specialist physician's medical report and prescription. When the appropriate prosthesis is determined by a medical report, reimbursement processes under social security can also be arranged.
This content is for informational purposes; for diagnosis and treatment, you should consult your physician.
