ABSTRACT
Definition: ProsthesesProsthesis is a device that either replaces a missing part of the body or supplements defective body parts. When prosthesis is needed to replace a part of the body, the cause is either described as traumatic (lost by injury) or congenital (missing from birth). Prosthesis can be made of biological or synthetic materials as well as can be a passive extension of the body or an active device that performs accordingly to electronic sensory input. Prostheses that apply actively generated forces are robotics systems that closely interact with the user and, in some cases, can interact with the user’s neural network. These neural prostheses can use various methods of communication, either directly or indirectly, by means of uni-directional or bi-directional invasive or non-invasive devices. Common prostheses include artificial limbs, artificial heart valves, hearing aids, palatal obturators, gastric bands, dentures, and most recently artificial eyes.
