Name of the Procedure:

Electric Hand, Switch or Myoelectric Controlled, Independently Articulating Digits, Any Grasp Pattern or Combination of Grasp Patterns, Includes Motor(s) (L6880)

Summary

This procedure involves fitting a patient with an advanced prosthetic hand that uses electric motors and sensors to mimic natural hand movements and grasp patterns. It's designed to provide enhanced dexterity and functionality for individuals with hand or upper limb amputations.

Purpose

The procedure addresses upper limb amputations or severe hand dysfunction. The goal is to restore a wide range of grasp patterns and hand movements, improving the patient's ability to perform daily activities and enhancing their quality of life.

Indications

• Limb loss due to trauma or congenital conditions.
• Severe hand dysfunction that impairs daily activities.
• Patients who demonstrate the ability to manage and benefit from a complex prosthetic device.

Preparation

• Complete medical and physical assessment.
• Psychological evaluation to ensure patient preparedness.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to confirm limb anatomy.
• Adjust current medications under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The healthcare provider will perform a thorough evaluation, including measuring the residual limb.
2. Casting and Mold Creation: A cast or digital model of the residual limb is made to tailor the prosthetic.
3. Fitting: The patient is fitted with the custom-made prosthetic hand.
4. Calibration and Training: The hand and sensors are calibrated to the patient's electrical impulses using myoelectric sensors, and the patient is trained to use the device.
5. Adjustment: Follow-up visits for fine-tuning and adjustments.

Tools include casting materials for molds, computer-assisted design software for the prosthetic, and myoelectric sensors. This procedure generally doesn’t require anesthesia.

Duration

The entire fitting and calibration process can take several weeks, with each session lasting from 1 to 3 hours.

Setting

Typically performed in a specialized prosthetics clinic or rehabilitation center.

Personnel

• Prosthetist
• Physical Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physician specializing in rehabilitation medicine

Risks and Complications

• Skin irritation or sores at the attachment site.
• Device malfunction or need for repairs.
• Potential for muscle atrophy if the device isn’t used correctly.
• Initial discomfort during calibration periods.

Benefits

• Restoration of hand function to perform activities of daily living.
• Improved quality of life and independence.
• Enhanced ability to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills. Benefits are typically realized within a few weeks to months as the user becomes proficient.

Recovery

• Initial training period to become accustomed to the prosthetic.
• Regular follow-up visits for adjustments and maintenance.
• Ongoing physical therapy to maximize the device’s utility.
• The recovery period varies but usually spans several weeks to months.

Alternatives

• Conventional prosthetic hands (non-electric).
• Continued use of adaptive tools and assistive devices.
• Surgical options, such as targeted muscle reinnervation. These alternatives might be less versatile or provide fewer functions compared to a myoelectric hand.

Patient Experience

Patients may experience initial learning curves and muscle fatigue while adapting to the new prosthetic. Pain management and comfort measures include proper fitting, regular maintenance, and therapeutic exercises. Ongoing support from a multidisciplinary team aids in adjusting and optimizing hand usage.