Body-powered hand prosthesis with low operating power for children.

For unilateral below-elbow amputated children a new elbow-controlled hand prosthesis has been developed. Since the triceps of young children have insufficient power to activate normal spring-closing hands, a special mechanism with low operating power has been developed for this prosthesis. A stiff spring gives a good gripping force. When the elbow is slightly extended this spring is switched off, and by further extension the hand is opened against a weak spring. So far, six children have used this special prosthesis. Their initial enthusiasm resulted in an improved system, which is now being designed.