Design criteria for percutaneous devices.

A theoretical model of a percutaneous device is described. The model is split into several components, each with its own function. Special structures such as horns, hair, feathers, fingernails, hoofs , teeth, and antlers are taken as examples where nature has solved the problems of "percutaneous devices." These structures have been regarded in relation to dimensional and structural differences of epidermis, dermis, and subcutis. Theoretical guidelines are described for the design of a prosthetic percutaneous device.