DEVELOPMENT OF A PROSTHESIS FOR THE ABSENCE OF THE MIDDLE PHALANX

Abstract

The absence of one of the fingers, whether due to trauma, disease, or a congenital anomaly, causes functional deficiencies and social dysfunctions for the patient. The industry currently offers various options for prostheses, some with functional characteristics that restore some movements of the lost limbs, while others are purely aesthetic. However, a large portion of these prostheses comes with a high monetary cost and difficulty in finding their manufacturing, often imported from developed countries, primarily due to their complexity, making them inaccessible to the majority of people. In addition to the high cost, there is also a lack of a simple and functional model to serve those in need of an individual finger or limb prosthesis. The objective of this study was to investigate a functional mechanical structure that, through a custom-made prosthesis, allows the restoration of restricted finger movements while presenting a low economic cost. To achieve this, exploratory research with qualitative analysis was conducted. The model was developed through the 3D printing process, using PLA as the material. The prototype exhibited the expected flexion, with the achieved angles closely resembling those of human finger flexion. Furthermore, the model also enabled the performance of daily tasks, such as typing and gripping objects. Moreover, the prototype operates based on the patient's stump movement, providing independent mobility and adequate comfort.