BackgroundThere has been no research investigating the use of powered prosthetic for children in Japan.ObjectiveTo gain better insight into the state of powered prosthesis usage and identify a ratio of rejection among children.MethodsSubjects were 37 unilateral below elbow amputees between the ages of 0 and 16 at the time of their first experienced fitting with a powered prosthesis at our Center. The information was collected from medical records and through face-to-face interviews, and we examined rejection rate and the factors affecting the use of powered prosthesis.ResultsThe rate of discontinuation was 21.6% as 8 of the 37 children stopped using powered prosthesis. All of them were fitted their prosthesis after 2 years of age, and they rejected prosthesis between 5 to 19 years. We found that the level of amputation had no influence on the use of a powered prosthesis.ConclusionsChildren fitted before 2 years of age tend to accept their powered prosthesis than those fitted after 2 years. Multidisciprinary team approach, adequate rehabilitation, detailed follow-up and involvement of parents are quite important for introducing powered prosthesis for children.

SUMMARYThe aim of this study was to develop a new evaluation method for controlling skill of a myoelectric control hand (MCH). Four amputees who daily used the MCH participated in this study. Measurement of two signals which were needed to control motion of the MCH was made. The two signals were assigned as the average rectified electromyograms of the forearm extensors and flexors. The values of the signals increased depending on the muscle contraction level. Therapy for using the MCH was performed to improve the ability to produce separate contractions of two muscles. This ability was defined as the skill in controlling the motion of the MCH. The skill in each motion was evaluated by the regression coefficient, which was calculated by the least squares method. The regression coefficient was inversely proportional to the skill. A quantitative index of skill can be provided by the newly developed method, and should be useful in developing efficient therapy to improve the skill in controlling the MCH.

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