ABSTRACT

Arm amputees have a basic choice of a hook or a hand for the prosthetic prehensor. There are compromises between these two options. The hook is more functional, and the hand is more cosmetic. Some amputees solve the dilemma by having one of each and interchanging them as work and social situations dictate. Arm amputees prefer to have one acceptable prehensor and they want one which is functional and attractive, but it does not necessarily have to look like a hand. The study reports the findings about five mechanical prosthetic designs and one mechanical hand. These were examined in object-geometry handling and ADL (activities of daily living) tasks.