Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #198

Abstract Prosthetics worldwide are evolving rapidly with the emergence of new technologies. Put simply, prostheses are artificial devices used to replace a missing limb. Prosthetics provide an opportunity for individuals who were born without a limb to experience the convenience of an additional hand or leg, while offering amputees improved mobility and restoration of their limb. Everything in prosthetics is highly engineered, from optimizing the aesthetic appearance to the function or material. With the focus on a particular aspect of the device, there is often a trade-off with other qualities particularly lacking. Passive prostheses, for example, prioritize appearance with a particular lack of functionality. Nevertheless, these are popular and well-used prosthetics despite the lack of mobility. This research aims to evaluate and define prosthetic qualities and the reasons why a patient might dislike or discontinue usage of prostheses. I intend to collect data through evaluating previously conducted research studies and make connections that bring to light a new perspective. Additionally, the uses for prosthetics are vast, from military uses, recreational activities, to everyday tasks such as picking up a cup of coffee. Advances in prosthetics have allowed patients to move their prosthetic device with a thought and improved the weight and comfort with 3D printed designs that are custom to the patient.