Real-World Testing of the Self Grasping Hand, a Novel Adjustable Passive Prosthesis: A Single Group Pilot Study

(1) Background: This study investigated the feasibility of conducting a two-week real-world trial of the Self Grasping Hand (SGH), a novel 3D printed passive adjustable prosthesis for hand absence; (2) Methods: Single-group pilot study of nine adults with trans-radial limb absence; five used body-powered split-hooks, and four had passive cosmetic hands as their usual prosthesis. Data from activity monitors were used to measure wear time and bilateral activity. At the end of the two-week trial, function and satisfaction were measured using the Orthotics and Prosthetics Users' Survey Function Scale (OPUS) and the prosthesis satisfaction sub-scales of the Trinity Amputations and Prosthesis Experience Scale (TAPES). Semi-structured interviews captured consumer feedback and suggestions for improvement; (3) Results: Average SGH wear time over 2 weeks was 17.5 h (10% of total prosthesis wear time) for split-hook users and 83.5 h (63% of total prosthesis wear time) for cosmetic hand users. Mean satisfaction was 5.2/10, and mean function score was 47.9/100; (4) Two-week real-world consumer testing of the SGH is feasible using the methods described. Future SGH designs need to be more robust with easier grasp lock/unlock.

Automated summary

This study investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel 3D printed passive adjustable prosthesis for hand absence called the Self Grasping Hand (SGH). Results showed that the SGH needs improvement in terms of wear time, satisfaction, and function score.