Prosthetic Acceptance: Are Innovations Making a Difference?
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By Marins Med
Advancements in upper-limb prosthetics have sparked hope for improved functionality, comfort, and long-term acceptance. However, recent research shows that despite technological breakthroughs, prosthetic abandonment remains high. A 2020 study led by Stefan Salminger, Heiko Stino, Lukas H. Pichler, Clemens Gstoettner, Agnes Sturma, and Johannes A. Mayer, published in Disability and Rehabilitation, reveals that even with these advancements, many challenges persist.
The Reality of Prosthetic Acceptance
The study, which surveyed 68 upper-limb amputees treated in Austria from 1996 to 2016, found a 44% rejection rate of prosthetic devices. This significant figure underscores the enduring challenges in prosthetic rehabilitation. Importantly, there was no significant difference in acceptance rates between those who underwent amputation before or after 2006, despite the availability of newer technologies like myoelectric prosthetics. This indicates that while advancements have been made, they haven't yet resulted in a major shift in long-term prosthetic acceptance.
Interestingly, 93% of users chose myoelectric devices, known for their cosmetic appeal and increased functionality. However, dissatisfaction remains widespread, with many users pointing to issues in prosthetic function. The study found that 43% of respondents believed the function of their prosthesis needed to be improved. This highlights a critical point: even with high-tech solutions, amputees still struggle to find prosthetics that truly meet their daily functional needs.
At Marins Med, our focus on enhancing prosthetic functionality is key to overcoming this barrier. The ProHensor promotes prosthetic acceptance by prioritizing functionality, enabling users to engage in active and demanding tasks without sacrificing durability or comfort.
Persistent Challenges: Comfort and Weight
The study identified common reasons for prosthetic rejection, including discomfort (reported by 61% of participants) and the weight of the device (52%). Despite advancements in lightweight materials and ergonomic designs, many amputees still find these devices uncomfortable for long-term wear. The ProHensor (ProHook) addresses these concerns with its body-powered, lightweight design that offers a balance between durability and ease of use.
The High Cost of Myoelectric Devices
While the Austrian healthcare system fully covers prosthetic rehabilitation, making cost a non-issue in this study, this is not the case in countries like the United States. In the U.S., the high cost of myoelectric prosthetics remains a significant factor in prosthetic abandonment. Many amputees are unable to afford these high-tech devices, contributing to a high rejection rate despite the potential benefits these prosthetics offer in terms of function and appearance.
At Marins Med, we recognize that cost plays a crucial role in prosthetic acceptance, especially in markets like the U.S. That’s why the ProHensor is designed to be both affordable and functional, providing a cost-effective solution that fits within insurance parameters while delivering high performance.
The Role of Prosthetic Training
One encouraging finding in the study was the importance of well-structured, patient-tailored prosthetic training. Amputees who perceived their training as useful were significantly more likely to continue using their prosthetic device. This highlights the critical role of not just providing advanced prosthetics, but also ensuring that users receive adequate support and guidance on how to use them effectively.
At Marins Med, we emphasize user-centric training and support, helping amputees to fully integrate the ProHensor into their daily lives, thus improving prosthetic acceptance and long-term success.
Looking to the Future: Innovative Solutions
Emerging technologies, such as targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) and osseointegration, show promise in improving prosthetic functionality and acceptance. These technologies offer more natural movement and better attachment, which could address some of the long-standing complaints regarding prosthetic comfort and function. Although these innovations have not yet been widely adopted, their potential to reduce abandonment rates is promising.
Marins Med is committed to incorporating cutting-edge innovations into our products. We believe that the combination of advanced technologies with user-centered design will lead to higher prosthetic acceptance rates in the future. As part of this mission, the ProHensor combines simplicity with functionality to ensure that it not only meets the needs of amputees but exceeds their expectations for durability and usability.
Conclusion
Despite recent innovations, prosthetic abandonment rates remain high, largely due to ongoing issues with comfort, weight, functionality, and cost. The research conducted by Salminger and colleagues underscores the need for prosthetic solutions that address these core concerns. By focusing on enhancing functionality and affordability, the ProHensor offers a practical, user-friendly solution that promotes prosthetic acceptance.
At Marins Med, we believe that every amputee deserves access to a functional, durable prosthetic device that enhances their quality of life. By continuing to innovate and refine our products, we are helping to improve prosthetic acceptance and ensuring that more amputees can lead active, fulfilling lives.
This blog is based on findings from a study titled "Current rates of prosthetic usage in upper-limb amputees – have innovations had an impact on device acceptance?" by Stefan Salminger, Heiko Stino, Lukas H. Pichler, Clemens Gstoettner, Agnes Sturma, and Johannes A. Mayer, published in Disability and Rehabilitation in 2020.