prostetika

Prostetika, or prosthetics, is the discipline and practice concerned with artificial substitutes for missing body parts. It encompasses the design, manufacture, fitting, and ongoing management of prosthetic devices to restore function and, when possible, appearance. Prosthetic devices may replace limbs, facial features, or dental structures, and they range from simple passive devices to advanced myoelectric or implant-supported systems.

History: Early prostheses date to ancient civilizations; modern prosthetics advanced in the 20th century with modular, adjustable components and standardized sockets. The late 20th and 21st centuries brought electrical control (myoelectric), microprocessors, and increasingly personalized, lightweight materials. Osseointegration and sensory feedback are areas of active development.

Types and components: Upper-limb prostheses include cosmetic hands, myoelectric hands, and body-powered devices. Lower-limb prostheses include energy-storing feet and multi-axial joints. Core components are the socket, pylons or subframes, joints, and a terminal device or foot. Specialized prostheses exist for facial features and dental structures.

Indications and use: Amputation due to trauma, vascular disease, or congenital limb absence, as well as loss of facial features or teeth, may lead to prosthetic rehabilitation. The aim is to restore mobility, independence, and aesthetics.

Fitting and rehabilitation: Care involves clinical assessment, precise socket fitting, alignment, training in device use, gait and functional therapy, and ongoing maintenance. Pain management and skin care are essential.

Outcomes and challenges: Prosthetics can significantly improve function and quality of life but face barriers such as cost, access, durability, and rejection or non-use. Multidisciplinary teams support fitting, rehabilitation, and device optimization.

Future directions: Advances include lighter materials, 3D printing, improved control schemes, osseointegrated implants, and neural sensory feedback to enhance embodiment and performance.