The Starfish Procedure. Issue 4 (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Niedermeier, Steven; Gaston, Raymond Glenn; Loeffler, Bryan J.
• Is Part Of: Techniques in orthopaedics. Volume 36:Issue 4(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: partial hand amputation -- Starfish procedure -- myoelectric prosthetics; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 617.47
• DOI: 10.1097/BTO.0000000000000568
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0885-9698

Abstract

Abstract : Partial hand amputations are devastating injuries, which can significantly impact ability to work and activities of daily living. Prosthetics can improve function for amputees; however, prosthesis utilization rates have historically been low in this patient population. Prosthetics for partial hand amputees can be active, passive, or driven by myoelectric signals. Myoelectric prosthetics have a role in dramatically improving patient function, but intuitive control of these prosthetics has not been possible. Frustration with ability to control these prosthetics, and an inability to control individual digits contributes to low utilization rates for these patients. The Starfish procedure was developed to provide patients with an intuitive ability to control individual myoelectric digits on a partial hand prosthesis.