Abstract:
Regardless of prosthetic design, there exist inherent limitations which adversely affect the
functionality of transhumeral prostheses. Loss of voluntary humeral rotational control, limitations
in prosthetic suspension and decreased range of motion limit the user’s acceptance and
functional use of a prosthesis.
Various techniques have been discussed in the medical literature to compensate for these
shortcomings. These include socket design techniques, harness techniques, and surgical
techniques.
Marquette introduced the concept of humeral angulation osteotomy to resolve these issues. By
surgically angling the distal humerus the amputee can be fit with a self-suspending prosthesis
that enables voluntary rotational control without restrictions to range of motion. Although this
technique is discussed in various prosthetic text books, very few cases have been reported.
Case studies will be presented showing surgical, rehabilitation, and prosthetic considerations.
