Prosthetics Abdullateef AL Fozaie

What are Prosthetics Prosthetics are artificial device extensions that replace a missing body part Available in early forms dating back to the fifth Egyptian dynasty BC Many forms and material composites Wide range in advanced technology and complexity Generally have been simple devices until the 1980’s technology boom

Advancement Introduction of Biomechanical (Bionic) Prosthetics Quantum leap in the advancement of Prosthetics devices over the past three decades Systems integration via BCI (Brain-Computer Interface) Osseointegration; direct structural and functional connection between living tissue and prosthetic devices Composite advances and prosthetic longevity

Access Wide US availability in different forms and technologies in their basic forms Slow spread of high tier devices due to complexity and cost to acquire, maintain and setup Relatively short lifespan and require regular maintenance and adjustment (3-5 years)

Cost The cost issue is a mixed bag, there are several different variations of prosthetic devices and the political agenda of insurance companies and states. The biggest problem is the VA services provided for amputees The general consensus of states and insurance companies is “Why get a cadillac when a chevy will do?” Renewed cost every 3 to 5 years.

There are approximately 2 millions amputees in the United states $ 0.25$ 1.00$ Upper limb Prosthesis $ 3000$ Lower Limb Prosthesis $ 5000$ Bionic Prosthesis $ 60000$200000

Quality of care Quality of care has always been fairly poor for amputee’s, the social and psychological effects are immense let alone the physical disability So when it comes to amputees its not as simple as hot gluing a piece of plastic, there’s along rehabilitation process as well mental care for some Some disabilities can be very extensive and require personal home care and assistance Issues of one’s dignity, self-reliance, productivity and ability to contribute to society

Political Agenda Amputee health care has always been on the political agenda and was a pressing issue post Vietnam war due to the very high number of amputees The issue has been refreshed due to the Iraq war and the medical advancement Funding is still sub par and the ideology of why get a Cadillac when a Chevy will do won’t get us anywhere

Sources prosthetics-insuring.html prosthetics-insuring.html world.com/assistivedevices/prostheses/prosthetics- costs.php world.com/assistivedevices/prostheses/prosthetics- costs.php coalition.org/fact_sheets/assist_orgs.html coalition.org/fact_sheets/assist_orgs.html dded&v=XBqjwxCda4A dded&v=XBqjwxCda4A dded&v=ppILwXwsMng dded&v=ppILwXwsMng