Abstract: A prosthetic device for a lower limb of a user is provided which includes a femoral leg component, a foot component and a cover component which are water compatible. The cover component includes one or more hollow sleeves defining one or more cavities in communication with a cavity provided in the foot component. The foot compartment includes a hole overlapping the one or more hollow sleeves which is configured to evacuate water from the prosthetic device and to provide air communication between the one or more cavities and the exterior of the prosthetic device. The cover includes a flexible venting opening so that the water drains naturally from the one or more cavities. A method of manufacturing the prosthetic device is also provided. The method includes manufacturing a cover with successive layers forming the cavities, with the cavities configured such that water drains naturally from the prosthetic device.

Abstract: A pylon for a prosthetic device, the pylon having a central axis, a first end, and a second end. In an embodiment, the pylon includes a first connecting member disposed at the first end and configured to couple to a socket worn by an amputee. In addition, the pylon includes a second connecting member disposed at the second end and configured to couple to a prosthetic foot. Further, the pylon includes a pylon member extending axially from the first connecting member to the second connecting member, wherein the pylon member extends helically about the central axis.

Abstract: A brim attachment for a prosthetic socket includes a cuff section defining an upper portion of the brim attachment and is arranged to extend about and upwardly from a socket opening. The cuff section is configured to move between tensioned and relaxed positions, wherein the tensioned position the cuff section is arranged to fold away from the socket opening, wherein the relaxed position the cuff section is arranged to extend above the socket opening and generally concentric with an outer surface of the socket. An interface section defines a lower portion of the brim attachment and is arranged to extend along a surface of the socket. The brim attachment may include a seal element protruding toward a central axis of the socket.

Abstract: The present relates to an adjustable prosthetic limb socket system having a partial rigid support, a non-elastic, flexible support and adjustment means. The adjustable socket system of the present invention can be used for several types of amputations including transfemoral amputations, transtibial amputations, transhumeral amputations, transradial amputations, and other types of amputations. The present invention further includes kits having the adjustable prosthetic limb socket system, as well as methods of making the adjustable prosthetic limb socket system. Methods of using the socket system are further encompassed by the present invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis shaft for receiving an amputation stump of an extremity, comprising connecting means for a distal prosthesis device (2), wherein the prosthesis shaft (1) comprises at least one shell (11, 12), which has an arched, open cross-section and the shell ends of which in the applied state overlap each other at least partially, at least one tensioning means (14, 15) being disposed on the shell (11, 12), said means acting in the circumferential direction and tensioning the shell ends relative to each other, and the shell (11, 12) being made of a dimensionally stable plastic having regions with varying elasticity.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to embodiments of a device for implantation into a residual amputated limb. More specifically, the subject invention provides one or more embodiments of an implantable force-distribution support that can be installed onto the terminal end of a bone or bone stump in a residual limb. The force-distribution support can restore the natural hydrodynamic system of the skeleton and can re-engage the axial skeleton as a factor in absorbing forces of ambulation. Embodiments can include a support bracket that can be attached to the terminal bone end to which a resilient-support can be attached to protect residual tissue from compression forces.

Abstract: A moisture management liner device for a prosthetic socket may include an elongate, cup-shaped, elastomeric member and multiple fluid transport strips. The elastomeric member may include a first material and may extend from an open proximal end to a substantially closed distal end. The substantially closed distal end may include a fluid exit aperture to allow fluid to pass out of the liner device. The fluid transport strips may include a second material and may be disposed at spaced-apart intervals around a circumference of an internal surface of the elastomeric member, over at least a distal portion of the elastomeric member. The fluid transport strips may be configured to facilitate passage of fluid out of the liner device through the fluid exit aperture.

Abstract: A transdermal implant assembly including a transdermal bone fixator configured for anchoring into a bone. The fixator includes a longitudinally extending shaft configured to be received into a recess of the bone, and a spindle defining a cavity. A compliant biasing member is disposed within the cavity and an end cap is removably coupled to the spindle to seal the cavity. The compliant biasing member is accessible for adjustments from the external environment.

Abstract: A portable device, with method, advantageously applies dynamic stimulation of enclosed muscle tissue to stabilize a prosthetic socket on a residual limb. Dynamic stimulation is in response to physical conditions such as prosthesis motion, position and/or internal pressures. Tissue volume contained within the socket may be stabilized by varying average stimulation levels in response to internal socket pressure.

Abstract: A prosthesis socket for receiving an amputation stump has at least one shell which has an arched, open cross-section, where the shell ends in the applied state overlap each other at least partially. At least one tensioning means is disposed on the shell to act in a circumferential direction for tensioning the shell ends relative to each other. The shell is being made of a dimensionally stable plastic having regions with varying elasticity. The proximal end of the socket is relatively more flexible. The inner surface of the socket includes a direction dependent surface to aid in holding the amputation stump. A connector for the distal prosthesis is preferentially positioned adjacent the patient's greater trochanter and is configured for pivotable bearing of the prosthesis with fixing devices to secure the orientation of the prosthesis relative to the socket.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis with a prosthesis socket which has an inner face and is designed to be arranged on an amputation stump after a liner has been pulled over the latter, such that the inner face is directed toward the liner and a volume is enclosed between the inner face and the liner, and with a pump for generating an underpressure in the volume when the prosthesis socket is arranged on the amputation stump, characterized in that the pump is a peristaltic pump (1).

Abstract: A leg prosthesis wherein the prosthesis shaft and the transtibial part are connected by a prosthesis shaft adapter. The prosthesis shaft adapter is constructed as a compact one-part component with a liner (sleeve as inner prosthesis shaft adapter) of the amputation stump and with a rearward extension for the prosthesis receptacle connection. The prosthesis shaft adapter is designed such that, in addition to the rearward extension of 1 cm to 10 cm, the prosthesis receptacle connection is also angled and laterally offset. Advantageously, the leg prosthesis according to the invention has a relatively low weight due to the prosthesis shaft adapter as a connecting element. The leg prosthesis operates absolutely safely and can be efficiently produced. The fabrication of a leg prosthesis with an individual biomechanical fit to the patient is significantly facilitated, which also results in fewer faulty prostheses.

Abstract: An adjustable socket system is configured to accommodate a residual limb. The adjustable socket system has first and second opposed sides and includes a rigid first component arranged along the first side of the socket. An adjustable second component has a plurality of interconnected vertebrae elements connected to the first component and is arranged along the second side of the socket system. The adjustable prosthetic socket also has a base connector secured to the distal end area of the first component.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an implantable force distribution boot with hydraulic features that mimic the natural hydraulics of a joint. Further embodiments include an exterior prosthetic leg device having intermittent and/or variable electromagnetic features that can engage with magnetic blades on the implantable force distribution boot. In use, the exterior prosthetic leg can be maintained on a residual limb by magnetic force between the implanted blades and the exterior electromagnets. Also disclosed are surgical techniques for preparing a residual limb to better receive and adapt to a prosthetic device. The techniques include an improved surgical method for harvesting a vascularized glabrous skin free flap.

Abstract: The invention relates to a socket system for a prosthesis. The socket system including a prosthesis socket which has a proximal opening for receiving a residual limb and a distal end and which is made, at least partially, of a first fiber-reinforced plastic. The socket system also includes an adapter element which is arranged on the distal end of the prosthesis socket and is designed in such a manner that a distal prosthesis element can be secured to the adapter element. The adapter element includes a base body which is made, at least partially, of a second fiber-reinforced plastic.

Abstract: Prosthetic devices containing an artificial foot are disclosed. Methods of making and using prosthetic devices containing an artificial foot are also disclosed. The artificial foot may be in the form of a thermoformed foot member having at least one foot member curved section between a foot member first end and a foot member second end opposite the foot member first end such that (a) a first portion of a foot member inner surface overlaps and faces a second portion of the foot member inner surface, (b) a foot member second end surface is positioned (i) between and connecting a foot member outer surface and the foot member inner surface to one another and (ii) over and facing the foot member second end surface along the at least one foot member curved section.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.

Abstract: Prosthetic liners, prosthetic sockets and prosthetic suspension sleeves, as well as orthotic components, having enhanced thermally conductivity and/or enhanced heat absorption capabilities. Such components may be used in various combinations to create assemblies and systems that are operative to better transfer heat away from and/or absorb heat produced by residual or intact limbs of a user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis socket for a prosthesis, which comprises connecting means for a distal prosthesis device and an outer socket, which is made predominantly from a rigid material, and a proximal opening for receiving a residual limb and which is surrounded by an outer socket edge. Said prosthesis socket is characterized in that said outer socket edge is made of a flexible and non-elastic material in said ventral region, said flexible and non-elastic material being adapted to the body shape of the wearer of the prosthesis socket.

Abstract: Embodiments of a modular prosthetic socket for a residual limb of a lower extremity of a patient are provided. Modular components include a base, multiple strut connectors, and multiple longitudinal struts. The base is selected from a collection of bases. The multiple strut connectors are selected from a collection of strut connectors, each strut connector being adjustably connectable to the base along the periphery of the base. The multiple longitudinal struts are selected from a collection of struts, each strut including a thermoplastic-fiber composite material, each strut being connectable to the base along the base periphery via one of the strut connectors. At least one of the component collections includes at least one of multiple sizes or multiple shapes of bases, struts or strut connectors, respectively. The prosthetic socket circumscribes a proximally-open internal space configured to conform to the residual limb of the patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthesis assembly, comprising an outer stem (10) provided with a proximal opening (11), and at the distal end (12) thereof is provided with a connecting means (13) for fastening an additional component, and which is formed of a material that is rigid in the longitudinal extension thereof, in which at least one slit (14) extending at least partially in a longitudinal direction is inserted in order to allow deformation in a radial direction. The prosthesis assembly further comprises an inner stem (20) made of a flexible material and provided with a proximal opening (21), at least one tensioning device (30) that is affixed to the outer stem (10) and can be accessed by way of a diameter change of the outer stem (10). At least one electrode (40) is displaceably fastened to a side of the outer stem (10) that is facing the inner stem (20).

Abstract: A leg prosthesis wherein the prosthesis shaft and the transtibial part are connected by a prosthesis shaft adapter. The prosthesis shaft adapter is constructed as a compact one-part component with a liner (sleeve as inner prosthesis shaft adapter) of the amputation stump and with a rearward extension for the prosthesis receptacle connection. The prosthesis shaft adapter is designed such that, in addition to the rearward extension of 1 cm to 10 cm, the prosthesis receptacle connection is also angled and laterally offset. Advantageously, the leg prosthesis according to the invention has a relatively low weight due to the prosthesis shaft adapter as a connecting element. The leg prosthesis operates absolutely safely and can be efficiently produced. The fabrication of a leg prosthesis with an individual biomechanical fit to the patient is significantly facilitated, which also results in fewer faulty prostheses.

Abstract: A transdermal implant assembly including a transdermal bone fixator configured for anchoring into a bone. The fixator includes a longitudinally extending shaft configured to be received into a recess of the bone, and a spindle defining a cavity. A compliant biasing member is disposed within the cavity and an end cap is removably coupled to the spindle to seal the cavity. The compliant biasing member is accessible for adjustments from the external environment.

Abstract: An adjustable socket system is configured to accommodate a residual limb. The adjustable socket system has first and second opposed sides and includes a rigid first component arranged along the first side of the socket. An adjustable second component has a plurality of interconnected vertebrae elements connected to the first component and is arranged along the second side of the socket system. The adjustable prosthetic socket also has a base connector secured to the distal end area of the first component.

Abstract: A prosthetic sleeve and sleeve pin alignment device has a support, and a body extending from the support. The body has a cup defining an inner wall surface defining a sleeve-receiving recess having a longitudinal axis and defining a sleeve pin-receiving guide hole to a sleeve-pin receiving pin guide aperture. The sleeve pin-receiving pin guide aperture has a central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve-receiving recess.

Abstract: Methods of producing a custom-fitted prosthetic socket device for a residual limb include covering the distal end thereof with a liner, positioning the covered end within a socket cup to maintain a spaced relationship between the exterior of the liner and the interior of the socket cup, introducing an expandable, hardenable filler material into the socket cup, expanding the material to fill the volume between the liner and the socket cup, hardening the material, and removing the socket cup, hardened filler material, and liner, from the residual limb. Some methods include a filler material that hardens into a flexible solid foam cushioning layer which may optionally form a bond between the socket cup and the liner, embedding the liner in the cushioning layer. Some methods include selecting a socket cup from a plurality of sized socket cups, and/or providing the plurality of sized socket cups.

Abstract: A computerized prosthesis alignment system includes a transducer that can measure socket reactions in the anterior/posterior plane and the right/left planes, while canceling or reducing the transverse forces on the measurements of these socket reactions. In addition, the transducer is also capable of determining the axial load or weight experienced by the prosthesis. The computerized prosthesis alignment system is in communication with a host computer. The moment data from the transducer is interpreted by the user via a computer interface. The host computer includes memory for storing one or more applications. These applications receive data from the transducer, interpret the data with discrete algebraic or fuzzy logic algorithms, and display the output numerically and graphically. Applications may also interpret the data to provide analysis to the user for aligning the prosthesis.

Abstract: A device with a wall (6) designed to tightly enclose a body part is made of an electrically non-conductive material (9) and has a shape adapted to the body part or adapting thereto as a result of the elasticity of the wall, wherein an inner face (7) of the wall (6) comes to bear on the skin (14) of the body part, and the inner face (7) is provided with at least one electrically conductive portion (4) which, in order to transmit electrical signals from or to the skin (14) of the body part, is arranged all the way through the electrically non-conductive material (9) of the wall (6), permits reliable transmission of electrical signals with a simple design of the liner, by virtue of the fact the electrically conductive portion (4) is covered by the electrically non-conductive material (9) and is connected to at least one conductor (5, 5?) passing through the electrically non-conductive material (9).

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic socket for a residual limb of the lower extremity or upper extremity of an individual person. The residual limb has particular dimensions and anatomical contours; the prosthetic socket has dimensions and contours that fit the dimensions and contours of the residual limb. The prosthetic socket may also fit in a manner that is biomechanically particularly appropriate for the individual. The prosthetic socket is an assembly of components from groups of components that include (a) struts arranged longitudinally with respect to the residual limb, (b) proximal brim members arranged proximally to the struts and connected thereto; and (c) distal socket members disposed at the distal base of the prosthetic socket. The socket components within these groups may be modular in that they can vary with respect to dimensions and/or contours, and yet have common connecting features that permit assembly of the components together to form the prosthetic socket.

Abstract: An adjustable socket system, method, and kit for use with prosthetic devices or orthotic, orthopedic, or exoskeletal support devices that includes a paddle and a compressing device coupled to the paddle. The paddle is chosen from a plurality of paddles of different shapes in such a way that the paddle inner surface is substantially coextensive with a soft tissue area overlying skeletal structures. The compressing device presses the paddle against the soft tissue area in order to minimize the motion of the paddle relative to the underlying skeletal structures without causing discomfort to the user or compressing areas not in contact with the paddle, allowing compressed tissue to flow into uncompressed areas. The system, method, and kit can include an external tool, sensors, actuators, and controllers, to assist fitting and for adjustment after fitting. A stabilizer can be added to resist the bending force on the paddle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for post amputation residuum maintenance and for preserving motion of the knee are provided. The apparatus includes an elongated shell having a longitudinal axis and defining a hollow interior closed at a distal end, the shell having an opening extending from a proximal end and adapted to receive a residuum into the interior of the shell, and a longitudinal slit having a circular aperture at each end.

Abstract: This invention provides new above knee (AK) and below the knee (BK) prosthetic sockets and implements specific manufacturing processes for the production of prosthetic sockets through the automated, computer controlled bi-axial and tri-axial braiding of sockets, over a mold or mandrel made of carved foam, plaster material or wax that is a replica of the patient's truncated limb, and is created by a Computer Aided Design (CAD) file controlling a Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine tool. This method of manufacture using aerospace fibers such as graphite or Kevlar, and high performance resins, is used to create a socket which is stronger and lighter weight than conventionally manufactured sockets. Braiding also allows incorporation of woven cloth, tapes and other reinforcements into the braiding process for added strength at selected areas. The method dramatically decreases the production time and cost of the prosthetic relative to conventional methods.

Abstract: A robotic prosthesis alignment device is disclosed that may automatically move the alignment of a prosthesis socket in relation to a prosthesis shank. The robotic prosthesis alignment device provides automatic translation in two axes. The robotic prosthesis alignment device includes angulation mechanics that automatically provide for plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion of the foot and shank with respect to the prosthesis socket. A surrogate device is also disclosed that can replicate the alignment achieved with the robotic prosthesis alignment device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for post amputation residuum maintenance and for preserving motion of the knee are provided. The apparatus includes an elongated shell having a longitudinal axis and defining a hollow interior closed at a distal end, the shell having an opening extending from a proximal end and adapted to receive a residuum into the interior of the shell, and a longitudinal slit having a circular aperture at each end.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods relating to a valve that may be used with a prosthesis attachment include a valve assembly that includes a spring loaded insert portion and a base portion that interfaces to lock and unlock by depressing the spring loaded insert portion.

Abstract: A prosthetic device includes an inner socket assembly including an upper interface member having a generally cylindrical outer periphery, the outer periphery defining a diameter and a length, the diameter being substantially greater than the length, and an outer socket assembly including a lower interface member having a recess correspondingly-shaped to the outer periphery of the upper interface member. At least a portion of the upper interface member is received within the recess of the lower interface member to secure the inner socket assembly to the outer socket assembly.

Abstract: An adjustable prosthesis system for a residual limb includes: an adjustable outer shell having an adjustable inner volume and an adjustable inner shape; at least one closure component attached to the adjustable outer shell and adapted to adjust at least one of the adjustable inner volume and the adjustable inner shape of the adjustable outer shell; an inner liner adapted to receive the residual limb and to be inserted in the adjustable inner volume of the adjustable outer shell; and an adjustable connector having a proximal end adjustably connected to a distal end of the adjustable outer shell and adapted to provide concurrently for a plurality of directional adjustments and/or angular adjustments of a position of the distal end of the adjustable outer shell relative to the proximal end of the adjustable connector, a distal end of the adjustable connector being adapted to connect to a prosthetic device.

Abstract: A prosthetic ankle module allows for translational and/or rotational movement of a prosthetic foot relative to an adapter. The ankle module can include a four-bar linkage assembly. Links of the linkage assembly can be arranged in various configurations, e.g., parallel or non-parallel and having equal or non-equal lengths, to provide different functions and benefits, e.g., dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, vertical shock absorption, inversion, eversion, and/or rotation about the sagittal axis. Other types of linkage assemblies are also possible. A prosthetic foot can further include a support spring to limit the range of motion of the adapter in use.

Abstract: An adjustable socket system includes a distal end portion having an axis, and a frame having a plurality of elongate fingers longitudinally extending from the distal end portion. Each of the elongate fingers defines at least two segments pivotally connected to one another and extending in a longitudinal direction relative to the distal end portion. The at least two segments are pivotable inwardly or outwardly relative to the axis. At least one elongate element is adjustably connected to the plurality of elongate fingers and forms part of a circumference of the adjustable socket system.

Abstract: A lower leg prosthesis, for an amputee who has at least one leg having a leg stump, has a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end is connectable to an artificial foot. The proximal end is connectable to the leg stump via a stump socket. A use condition of the lower leg prosthesis includes the distal end being connected to the artificial foot and the proximal end being connected to the leg stump via the stump socket.

Abstract: A post-operative residual limb support assembly includes an upper frame configured to extend about at least a portion of a residual limb; and a lower frame coupled to the upper frame and configured to receive an end of the residual limb. The upper frame and the lower frame are adjustable relative to one another in at least one of a linear and rotational manner.

Abstract: An anatomical socket is fashioned to attach to an amputated limb, which can be a median between the amputated limb and the prosthesis device. The method produces, based on specific measurements of a user, an anatomical socket that provides the user with cosmesis, a greater range of motion, a better gait and comfort. The socket has a low upper rim to allow for the greatest mobility of the hip joint. The socket is produced of a durable and smooth plastic. The socket fits in a secure, yet removable manner to the prosthesis. The method disclosed herein takes precise measurements of the wearer's limb to provide for optimal fitting and comfort.

Abstract: The present invention in one embodiment is a vacuum pump including a compressible elastomeric member with an internal reservoir enclosing a volume of fluid, an outlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid sink, and an inlet port providing fluid communication between the internal reservoir and a fluid source. The pump further includes first and second pressure elements coupled to the elastomeric member on opposing sides. At least one of the first and second pressure elements is adapted to apply a longitudinal force along, and a rotational force about, an axis extending through the compressible elastomeric member. Upon the application of a longitudinal compression force to the compressible elastomeric member, fluid flows from the internal reservoir to the fluid sink and upon the application of a longitudinal expansion force, fluid flows from the fluid source to the internal reservoir.

Abstract: A mechanical interface connecting a biological body segment, such as a limb, portion of a limb or other body segment, to a wearable device such as a prosthetic, orthotic or exoskeletal device, is fabricated by quantitatively mapping a characterized representation of the body segment to form a digital representation of the mechanical interface shape and mechanical interface impedance. The mechanical interface includes a continuous socket defining a contoured inside surface and a contoured outside surface, and includes a material having an intrinsic impedance that varies through the material, so that the intrinsic impedance varies along the contoured inside surface.

Abstract: A prosthesis system includes a reconfigurable socket. The socket changes configurations to adjust the socket fit. The socket includes a socket main body with a window and a panel positioned in the window. The panel and the socket main body cooperate to define a cavity for receiving a residual limb. A lacing system is coupled to both the socket main body and the panel and moves the panel with respect to the socket main body to adjust a volume of the cavity. A tensioning mechanism holds the lacing system to position the adjustment panel. The prosthesis system also allows for the escape of moisture from within the cavity.

Abstract: A powered prosthetic thigh can have a proximal portion configured to couple to a prosthetic hip socket and can have a distal portion attached to the proximal portion. The distal portion can have a distal connector configured to couple to a prosthetic knee. The powered prosthetic thigh can also have a computer controlled actuator configured to rotate the prosthetic thigh relative to the prosthetic hip socket.

Abstract: A tube-sock shaped polymeric covering for wearing over an amputation stump. The covering has an open end for receiving the amputation stump and a closed end opposite the open end. The covering includes a docking means for attachment of an external device to the covering. The covering may also include one or more areas of reinforcing material that can be present in the form of a strip or rod, for example. The reinforcing material is comprised of a material that is less stretchable than the polymeric material forming the covering, and acts to reduce stretching and/or movement of the covering.

Abstract: A connector for fluidly connecting the sealed interior of an artificial limb socket with a pressure source when the connector is mounted to the socket at a hole and an artificial limb including same. The connector includes a flexible elongated tubular section having a lumen, a flange coupled to one end of the elongated tubular section, the flange having a seal surface for sealingly abutting one of the socket wall surfaces around the hole, and a tubular portion adjacent to the flange and extending the lumen from the seal surface of the flange. Tubular portion has at least one section oversized relative to hole which provides a reasonable air-tight seal between the at least one section and an inner surface of the hole or the other of said socket wall surfaces around the hole and distant from the flange, when the tubular portion is received within the hole.

Abstract: A leg prosthesis, including an inner tube having a longitudinal axis a and an outer tube which is mounted on the inner tube and can be displaced relative to the inner tube in the axial direction relative to the longitudinal axis a, a retaining device being provided, by means of which the inner tube and the outer tube can be positively secured relative to one another in the axial direction relative to the longitudinal axis a in at least one position L.

Abstract: A Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device that can be inexpensively manufactured using modern technology and advanced polymer materials. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device will be immediately fit on the residual limb and aligned for optimal gait without specialized tools or labs, alleviating the many steps involved with conventional labor-intensive and costly prosthesis construction. The Rapid Fit Modular Prosthetic Device also accommodates the changing in size and shape of the limb, eliminating the need for multiple prostheses and adjustments to an existing prosthesis during the lifetime of an amputee.