Article

Mechanical properties of the DEKA Arm and associated engineering innovations are
easy to observe. What is less clear is how these advances translate into
functional benefits for the user with amputation. Study aims were to (1) quantify
outcomes including dexterity, performance of daily activities, and prosthetic
skill and spontaneity of users of the DEKA Arm and (2) compare outcomes when
using the DEKA Arm with scores using the existing prosthesis. This was a
quasi-experimental study. Descriptive analyses examined outcomes by DEKA Arm
configuration level. Of the 39 subjects fit with a DEKA Arm, 32 were trained in
use and completed end-of-study testing. Data from 26 prosthetic users were used
to compare outcomes using existing prostheses with outcomes with the DEKA Arm.
Dexterity and activity performance with the DEKA Arm varied by amputation level
(p < 0.01). Self-reported function and number of activities performed using the
prosthesis were similar across levels. Comparisons with existing prostheses
showed the effect on dexterity varied by level. Activity performance and
spontaneity of prosthetic use improved for users of the shoulder configuration
level, while use of the prosthesis to perform activities and perceived difficulty
performing self-selected tasks improved for all levels.

Langue : ANGLAIS