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A 2-year-old girl sustained severe injury to 2 fingers from a home paper shredder. This case illustrates the risk of injury from paper shredders, which are increasingly common household items. Toddlers are at risk of finger injury and amputation. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission performed an investigation of reported injuries and the characteristics of paper shredders that might have contributed to the injuries, and we summarize their findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces some efficient generalized class of factor-type exponential imputation techniques and their corresponding estimators using auxiliary information. Generalized ratio, product, and dual to ratio type exponential estimators are the special cases of our suggested imputation techniques. Biases and mean squared error expressions are derived up to the first order of large sample approximations. The proposed imputation techniques can be viewed as efficient extensions of the work of Singh and Horn [Compromised imputation in survey sampling. Metrika. 2000;51(3):267–276. doi: 10.1007/s001840000054], Singh and Deo [Imputation by power transformation. Statist Papers. 2003;44(4):555–579. doi: 10.1007/BF02926010], Toutenburg and Srivastava [Amputation versus imputation of missing values through ratio method in sample surveys. Statist Papers. 2008;49(2):237–247. doi: 10.1007/s00362-006-0009-4], Kadilar and Cingi [Estimators for the population mean in the case of missing data. Commun Stat Theory Methods. 2008;37(14):2226–2236. doi: 10.1080/03610920701855020], Singh [A new method of imputation in survey sampling. Statistics. 2009;43(5):499–511. doi: 10.1080/02331880802605114], Gira [Estimation of population mean with a new imputation methods. Appl Math Sci. 2015;9(34):1663–1672] and Singh et al. [An improved alternative method of imputation for missing data in survey sampling. J Stat Appl Probab. 2022;11(2):535–543. doi: 10.18576/jsap]. Our proposed estimators are compared with these estimators, including the mean, ratio, and regression imputation techniques. Thereafter, a numerical illustration and simulation study are conducted for a comparative study using real and simulated data sets, and the demonstration shows that our suggested estimators are the most efficient estimators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Capturing the variability that exists among patients attending an amputee clinic using standardized paper-based questionnaires is time-consuming and may not be practical for routine clinical use. Electronic questionnaires are a potential solution; however, the benefits are dependent on the feasibility and acceptance of this mode of data collection among patients.Objective: To determine the feasibility and patient preference/comfort in using a tablet-based questionnaire for data collection in an outpatient amputee rehabilitation clinic compared to a traditional paper-based questionnaire.Study Design: Observational study.Methods: In all, 48 patients with major extremity amputations completed both tablet and paper questionnaires related to their amputation and prosthetic use. Both trials were timed; patients then completed a semi-structured questionnaire about their experience.Results: In all, 20.5% of patients needed hands-on assistance completing the paper questionnaire compared to 20.8% for the tablet. The majority of participants (52.1%) indicated a preference for the tablet questionnaire; 64.6% of patients felt the tablet collected a more complete and accurate representation of their status and needs. In all, 70.8% of participants described themselves as comfortable using the tablet.Conclusion: Despite comorbidities, patients with amputations demonstrated excellent acceptance of the electronic tablet-based questionnaire. Tablet questionnaires have significant potential advantages over paper questionnaires and should be further explored. Clinical relevance A custom electronic questionnaire was found to be beneficial for routine clinic use and was well received by patients in an amputee rehabilitation clinic. Development of such questionnaires can provide an efficient mechanism to collect meaningful data that can be used for individual patient care and program quality improvement initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Amputation of facial tissue presents difficult management problems, including cosmetic, functional, and psychological effects for the patient. A case of successful microsurgical replantation of a bitten-off vermilion of the lower lip is hereby reported. The outcome in this case was both functionally and cosmetically acceptable. A comprehensive review of the literature on the subject of lip replantation is also made in this communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Electronic versions of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) seem to have a clear administrative logging advantage to traditional paper versions. However, most of them have not been formally evaluated for their suitability to replace paper outcome measures for assessment of individuals with lower-limb amputations. The aim of this study is to examine the usability and equivalence of electronic to paper versions of PROMs suitable for use in prosthetic clinical care and research for persons with lower-limb loss. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 10 participants remotely completed the following PROMs online and then on paper: Orthotic and Prosthetic User Survey (OPUS), Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES), Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), and Community Participation Indicators (CPI). Participants also answered open-ended and standardized questions regarding the usability of the electronic surveys. Wilcoxon signed rank tests, comparisons to minimum detectable change, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Bland-Altman plots were used to evaluate differences between the two survey versions, meaningful changes in scores, reliability, and systematic biases, respectively. Results: Electronic surveys had fewer missing or ambiguous responses than paper surveys; however, the PEQ Social Burdens subscale could not be evaluated due to error in the creation of the electronic survey. No significant differences were found between scores of the two versions for any of the measures, but multiple participants had meaningful changes in the Appearance and Sounds PEQ subscales. All measures demonstrated acceptable reliability between versions, except the Appearance, Perceived Response, and Sounds subscales of the PEQ. No systematic biases in scores or usability concerns were found for any measures. Conclusions: This study analysis showed that most of the electronic PROMs studied are easily used and demonstrate equivalence to the paper versions. However, the PEQ Appearance, Perceived Response, Sounds, and Social Burden subscales require further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gait analysis is recognized as a useful assessment tool in the field of human movement research. However, doubts remain on its real effectiveness as a clinical tool, i.e. on its capability to change the diagnostic-therapeutic practice. In particular, the conditions in which evidence of a favorable cost-benefit ratio is found and the methodology for properly conducting and interpreting the exam are not identified clearly. To provide guidelines for the use of Gait Analysis in the context of rehabilitation medicine, SIAMOC (the Italian Society of Clinical Movement Analysis) promoted a National Consensus Conference which was held in Bologna on September 14th, 2013. The resulting recommendations were the result of a three-stage process entailing i) the preparation of working documents on specific open issues, ii) the holding of the consensus meeting, and iii) the drafting of consensus statements by an external Jury. The statements were formulated based on scientific evidence or experts' opinion, when the quality/quantity of the relevant literature was deemed insufficient. The aim of this work is to disseminate the consensus statements. These are divided into 13 questions grouped in three areas of interest: 1) General requirements and management, 2) Methodological and instrumental issues, and 3) Scientific evidence and clinical appropriateness. SIAMOC hopes that this document will contribute to improve clinical practice and help promoting further research in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an innovative approach to active prosthetic management, this paper introduces a method for intelligent control that circumvents the necessity of expensive sensory systems directly linked to user brain activity, such as muscle signals. The prosthesis autonomously determines the appropriate timing and nature of its movements, showcasing a unique control technique. The study also involves the development and evaluation of an advanced control system, alongside the establishment of a test platform for an Active Prosthetic Knee (APK). The scope of this research spans mechanical design, sensor integration, and motor control tailored to the APK. A noteworthy outcome of this study is the ability to fabricate a durable and cost-effective active prosthetic suitable for individuals with above-the-knee amputations. The resulting prosthetic demonstrates an enhanced capability to mimic the movement of a healthy limb with greater precision, all the while minimizing the physical strain on the patient's muscles. In terms of movement decision-making, the APK relies on analyzing the motion of the unaffected leg, thus eliminating the requirement for high-priced sensory systems traditionally connected to human brain signals. The intelligent control system has shown a significant improvement in movement precision compared to conventional models, and a reduction in the strain experienced by the user, marking significant strides in active prosthetic technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opponents of the provision of therapeutic, healthy limb amputation in Body Integrity Identity Disorder cases argue that such surgeries stand in contrast to the goal of medical practice – that of health restoration and maintenance. This paper refutes such a conclusion via an appeal to the nuanced and reflective model of health proposed by Georges Canguilhem. The paper examines the conceptual entanglement of the statistically common with the normatively desirable, arguing that a healthy body can take multiple forms, including that of an amputee, provided that such a form enables the continuing ability to initiate new norms of existence. It concludes that the practice of healthy limb amputation in cases of Body Integrity Identity Disorder is not only compatible with the goal of medicine but is potentially the only method of achieving this goal in the face of a complex and often mischaracterized disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascularized Composite Tissue Allotransplantation (VCA) allows replacement of lost body parts from brain-dead donors. These surgeries are laborious, time-intensive, and require vast planning. With the advent of better immunosuppressants, VCA will increasingly play an important role in the reconstructive field. In this paper, the authors share their standard operating protocol created after much deliberation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assistive technologies (AT) perform an important social role, interacting with cultural systems to produce or hinder accessibility to biosocial environments. This interaction profoundly shapes not only how an individual body can be experienced by users but also produce and hinder accessibility to biosocial environments. AT users have historically been viewed through a medical model, which deems them disabled by their impairments and by dominant ableist narratives. Therefore, this paper serves to provide an insight into the importance of ageing with and into AT. This paper aims to investigate polio survivors' and diabetic amputees' experiences of assistive technologies in order to better understand impacts upon narrative and identity. By applying an anthropological and sociological lens, a holistic view of the experiences of polio survivor and amputee AT users is developed. This paper draws on 16 in-depth interviews with polio survivors and diabetic amputees in the United States (US) and Australia, which were analysed using an experience-centered narrative approach. Both projects were approved by ethics boards. All participants provided written consent. Five themes were identified: a) disruption to biographies, which reflected AT impact on how narratives become altered; b) impacts to autonomy, which reflected the importance of regaining previous daily activities; c) re-engaging with community life, which highlighted how AT supported participation in valued activities; d) self-perceptions of assistive technologies, which act in opposition to external perspectives and challenge ableist narratives; and e) an intergenerational comparison of new and older AT users highlights the importance of temporalities. This paper offers new perspectives on ageing with assistive technologies, with a focus on identity and narrative. The importance of this paper is to contribute to the existing literature that demonstrates the cultural implications that arise through embodiment and assistive technologies. The use of assistive technology can help individuals regain function, but the individual circumstances require consideration The use of assistive technology is a complex entanglement of bodies, environments, biographies, and imagined futures. The use of assistive technology can provide participants autonomy over their narratives and assist with maintaining their identities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic refractory complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is the severest form of this condition characterised by acute pain, other painful phenomena (hyperpathia, allodynia), severe functional impairment of the affected extremity and non-responsiveness to standard treatments. This paper presents a case of a 40-year-old man suffering from this form of CRPS, in whom all treatment options, including non-standard appeared ineffective. The patient suffered from intractable pain and a completely disabled extremity was considered by him a burden, additionally affecting his daily living. After a review of the literature and informing the patient about the potential benefits and the potential risk of failure of surgery, at the request of the patient an amputation of the upper extremity was performed at the level of 1/3 distal arm. The postoperative course was uneventful, but amputation did not result in cessation of the pain which persisted in the residual limb. The presented case shows that limb amputation for chronic refractory CRPS may not give expected beneficial effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Phantom limb pain affects 50 percent to 85 percent of patients who have had their limbs amputated, lowering their quality of life. Clinical therapies for central pain, such as mirror therapy, motor imagery, or visual feedback, might help amputee patients suffering from phantom limb pain. Objectives: To provide a general review of the efficacy of various approaches for treating phantom limb discomfort in amputee patients. Methods: The following databases were used for a computerized literature search up to March 2022: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The modified Jadad score is utilized to measure study quality in this research. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines were followed while conducting this systematic review. Results: In all, 15 papers matched our inclusion criteria, with 5 receiving a low study quality rating and 10 receiving a good study quality rating. All the studies revealed a considerable decrease in pain; however, the patients and techniques varied. Conclusion: Mirror therapy, motor imagery, and visual feedback can alleviate phantom limb pain. However, there is a lack of scientific data to support their efficacy. Future studies should use more powerful research methodologies to investigate these medicines' short- and long-term advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cranial cruciate ligament disease is a very common source of pelvic limb lameness in dogs, and many techniques have been used to resolve this condition. Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) rapid technique is a new simplified option with very good results reported. Adding a small Steinmann pin distal to the cage prevents avulsion of the tibial tuberosity by quadriceps mechanism. In this report, we describe the first modified TTA rapid technique in a dog with a contralateral amputated limb. The dog was a five-year-old mixed breed with amputated right pelvic limb and difficulty walking. The dog started to walk unassisted second day postoperative, and at three months follow-up evaluation it showed no lameness and the osteotomy was completely healed. Cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) is one of the most frequent causes of hindlimb lameness in dogs. Tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) is a common surgery performed for CCLD. A modified, simplified technique (TTA Rapid) is also reported to have very good clinical outcomes. In this paper, we report a modified TTA Rapid technique to treat a CCLD in a dog with an amputated contralateral hindlimb. A 5-year-old mixed breed dog presented with amputated right hindlimb and difficulty walking. Pain and positive drawer sign were present at manipulation of left stifle joint. Radiographic findings of the stifle joint confirmed the presence of moderate osteoarthritis associated with CCLD, and modified TTA Rapid procedure was performed. Recovery from surgery was uneventful, and the dog was able to stand by his own by the second day postoperative. At three months follow-up evaluation, the dog was free of lameness and the osteotomy site was completely healed. This paper describes the first modified TTA rapid osteotomy technique performed in a dog with a contralateral amputated hindlimb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented which discusses various topics within the issue which discusses various topics within the issue including use of goal setting in the rehabilitation of people, clinical rehabilitation and healthcare activity in rehabilitation of people.

The article presents a case study of an African-American woman whose three middle fingers on the right hand were cut after being crushed by rollers at a paper mill where she works. She was stabilized in the emergency room and underwent partial amputation of the index and long fingers at the metacarpal joint and of the ring finger at the proximal interphalangeal joint. The skills testing assessment used to identify what her specific deficits without the prosthesis is explored.

Background: The main aim of this paper is to present the feasibility of rigorously designed multiple N-of-1 design in prosthetics research. While research of adequate power and high quality is often lacking in rehabilitation, N-of-1 trials can offer a feasible alternative to randomized controlled group trials, both increasing design power at group level and allowing a rigorous, statistically confirmed evaluation of effectiveness at a single patient level. The paper presents a multiple N-of-1 trial protocol, which aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of Unity, a prosthetic add-on suspension system for amputees, on patient-reported comfort during daily activities (main outcome measure), prosthesis wearing time, perception of limb-prosthesis fitting and stump volume and functional walking parameters. Methods: Multicenter, randomized, prospective, double-blind multiple N-of-1 trial using an introduction/withdrawal design alternating Unity connected/disconnected phases of randomized length on twenty patients with unilateral transtibial amputation. The primary outcome measure is the Prosthetic Socket Comfort Score (SCS), a validated measure of comfort, administered daily by an phone app designed for the study. Secondary outcomes measures will be collected during the 50 days period of the N-of-1 trial: (1) by the same app, daily for patient-reported limb-prosthesis fitting, stump volume variation, and daily wearing time of the prosthesis; (2) by a pedometer for the number of steps per day; (3) by blind assessors in the rehabilitation center during adjustment visits for functional walking parameter (L-Test, 6-minute walk test), and by the patient for the QUEST, and ABC-S. Effectiveness of the Unity system regarding SCS and daily secondary outcome measures will be tested by randomization test. The secondary outcome measures assessed during visits in the rehabilitation center will be analyzed by Non Overlap of All pairs. An estimate of the effect on the amputee population will be generated by aggregating each individual clinical trial (N-of-1 trial) by Hierarchical Bayesian methods. Discussion: This study protocol was designed to answer the question "which device is best for THIS patient" and to conclude at a group level on the effectiveness of a new devic, using a Multiple N-of-1 trial, which is promising but underused in prosthetics research so far. Trial registration: N° ID-RCB 2020-A01309-30 Clintrial.gov : NCT04804150 - Retrospectively registered March 20th 2021. Keys messages: Multiple N-of-1 trials represent a switch in the rationale behind the choice of a medical device. Instead of selecting prosthetics based on the mean response to the device of a group of participants, multiple N-of-1 trials allow to answer the question "which device is best for THIS patient", using a rigorous, recognized, scientific methodology allowing individual results as well as group analysis. This Multiple N-of-1 trials is an approach in an ecological environment and with daily measures that will provide data closer to daily prosthetic use than trials testing device effectiveness outside of daily life; [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designs of active prostheses attempt to compensate for various functional losses following amputation. Integration of sensory feedback with the functional control re-enables sensory interaction with the environment through the prosthetic. Besides the functional and sensory loss, amputation induces anatomical and physiological changes of the sensory neural pathways, both peripherally and centrally, which can lead to phantom limb pain (PLP). Additionally, referred sensation areas (RSAs) likely originating from peripheral nerve sprouting, regeneration, and sensory reinnervation may develop. RSAs might provide a non-invasive access point to sensory neural pathways that project to the lost limb. This paper aims to report on the sensory input features, elicited using non-invasive electrical stimulation of RSAs that over time alleviated PLP in two upper-limb amputees. The distinct features of RSAs and sensation evoked using mechanical and electrical stimuli were characterized for the two participants over a period of 7 and 9 weeks, respectively. Both participants received transradial and transhumeral amputation following traumatic injuries. In one participant, a relatively low but stable number of RSAs provided a large variety of types of evoked phantom hand (PH) sensations. These included non-painful touch, vibration, tingling, stabbing, pressure, warmth/cold as well as the perception of various positions and movements of the phantom hand upon stimulation. Discomforting and painful sensations were induced with both mechanical and electrical stimuli. The other participant had a relatively large number of RSAs which varied over time. Stimulation of the RSAs provided mostly non-painful sensations of touch in the phantom hand. Temporary PLP alleviation and a change in the perception of the phantom hand from a tight to a more open fist were reported by both participants. The specificity of RSAs, dynamics in perception of the sensory input, and the associated alleviation of PLP could be effectively exploited by designs of future active prostheses. As such, techniques for the modulation of the sensory input associated with paradigms from interaction with the environment may add another dimension of protheses towards integrating personalized therapy for PLP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the foundation upon which the contemporary knowledge of body integrity dysphoria (BID) is built. According to the World Health Organisation's International Classification of Diseases, 11th edition (ICD-11), the main feature of BID is an intense and persistent desire to become physically disabled in a significant way. Three putative aetiologies that are considered to explain the insurgence of the condition are discussed: neurological, psychological and postmodern theories. The concept of bodily representation within the medical context is highlighted, with the concept of dysphoria, which was brought to the fore with the introduction of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5), and the ICD-11. Contemporary issues of "justice" are addressed to identify ethically relevant distinctions between BID and sex reassignment surgery. It is argued that there is no ethically relevant difference between the BID actor's desire for invasive surgical intervention and the wish of gender dysphoric individuals to undergo sex reassignment surgery procedures. Some BID actors self-mutilate, and this presents medical professionals with difficult choices regarding whether or not to intervene in order to satisfy the BID patient's desire. Both abstention and intervention may lead to severe ethical complications for doctors and patients despite the positive outcomes in terms of quality of life for BID individuals who manage to undergo such procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actuated lower limb prostheses, including powered (active) and semi-active (quasi-passive) joints, are endowed with controllable power and/or impedance, which can be advantageous to limb impairment individuals by improving locomotion mechanics and reducing the overall metabolic cost of ambulation. However, an increasing number of commercial and research-focused options have made navigating this field a daunting task for users, researchers, clinicians, and professionals. The present paper provides an overview of the latest trends and developments in the field of actuated lower-limb prostheses and corresponding technologies. Following a gentle summary of essential gait features, we introduce and compare various actuated prosthetic solutions in academia and the market designed to provide assistance at different levels of impairments. Correspondingly, we offer insights into the latest developments of sockets and suspension systems, before finally discussing the established and emerging trends in surgical approaches aimed at improving prosthetic experience through enhanced physical and neural interfaces. The ongoing challenges and future research opportunities in the field are summarized for exploring potential avenues for development of next generation of actuated lower limb prostheses. In our opinions, a closer multidisciplinary integration can be found in the field of actuated lower-limb prostheses in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a commentary on "Vascular amputees: A study in disappointment" (Little et al. 1974) and its significance in the development of the disability rights movement, as well as the movements for values-based medicine and person-centred health and social care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction features of waist support products depend on current fashion trends, the specific requirements imposed on the products by potential wearers and the characteristics of the materials used and of course the methodology for developing the basic construction. In the case of people with lower limb amputations, the construction also depends on the type of prosthesis and its size. The paper presents the results of the study to optimize the construction of trousers for men with amputations in the leg. The topicality of the theme is determined by the alarming increase in the number of amputations and the increased interest of specialists in creating clothing for people with disabilities. The paper aims to identify the methodology for improving the construction of the product of trousers for people with amputations of the lower limbs, using 3D simulation. The general objective of this paper is to propose a succession of optimization of the basic pattern in order to be able to be customized according to the type of amputation. The paper presents the initial data necessary in the elaboration of a customized construction. Also presented are the stages of optimizing the construction of the pants and the simulations on the body of the avatar of the pattern, even after performing the optimization. The use of 3D software allows obtaining the wearer's avatar and assigning unique features, which are taken into account when designing custom clothing products. They also allow you to check the position of the products on the body of the avatar and modify them according to the requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interventions are medically necessary when they are vital in achieving the goal of medicine. However, with varying perspectives comes varying views on what interventions are (un)necessary and, thus, what potential treatment options are available for those suffering from the myriad of conditions, pathologies and disorders afflicting humanity. Medical necessity's teleological nature is perhaps best illustrated in cases where there is debate over using contentious medical interventions as a last resort. For example, whether it is appropriate for those suffering from body integrity dysphoria to receive healthy limb amputations. This paper explores how one's perception of medicine's goal underpins whether interventions are necessary or unnecessary, using the controversial topic of therapeutic amputation as an example. By contrasting 'classical' amputations with their more contentious counterparts, it highlights how the idea of medical necessity influences and restrains clinical decision-making. The paper starts by giving an account of body integrity dysphoria, focusing on the debate concerning elective amputation's justifiability. It then introduces Georges Canguilhem's vitalist theory of health, paying particular attention to his emphasis on adaptability. Then, this paper uses his theory as a lens through which to evaluate the appropriateness of therapeutic amputation as a medically necessary procedure. Ultimately, the paper highlights how the label of medical necessity is withheld from potential therapeutic interventions because they fail to conform to pre-established ideas of medicine's purpose and that by doing so, potential harm befalls those who are left with no effective treatments and must look for solutions in the non-clinical world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the issue of designing special clothing for people with disabilities attracts the attention of specialists in various fields. This topic is very current, important and requires in-depth studies. The need for functional products for people with lower limb amputations is quite high, but they can only be found in specialized workshops. At the moment, local companies do not make clothing for people with special needs, which leads to a shortage of products on the market. The paper presents the results of a study that shows us the need for specialized products for people with lower limb amputations and their use in everyday life. The topicality of the theme is determined by the increase in the number of people with lower limb amputations and the increased interest of specialists in creating clothing for people with disabilities. The paper aims to establish the range of textile products for people with amputations of the lower limbs, necessary during the rehabilitation period and the period of social integration. The general objective of this paper is to analyze the assortment present in the wardrobe of people with amputations of the lower limbs and identify the need in product types. The paper presents the results of a survey of a group of prisoners with lower limb amputations. There is also a tendency to establish the group of clothing products, which would satisfy the wearer, but also those around. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The treatment of neuromas with regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNI) has gained much attention in recent years. This systematic review compared the clinical outcomes of upper limb neuromas treated with free (fRPNI) versus vascularized RPNI (vRPNI). Methods: This systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed database was searched for relevant studies published between August 2016 and May 2023. The search term "RPNI" was used. Data including patient demographics, type of RPNI performed, mean pain duration prior to RPNI, post-operative follow-up period, the reduction in neuroma pain scores after RPNI and post-operative complications were extracted independently by two authors and recorded using standard computer software for data processing. Results: Of 43 papers identified, only four fulfilled the inclusion criteria. This provided data for upper limb neuromas in 32 patients where a total of 83 RPNIs (22 vascularized) were performed. The means for patient age, duration of neuroma pain, length of reported postoperative follow-up, and reduction in neuroma pain scores were 44.0 years, 3.6 years, 12.2 months and 86% respectively. Conclusions: The current evidence suggests that either fRPNI or vRPNI may be useful for treating upper extremity neuromas, both prophylactically and secondarily. However, the heterogeneity and inconsistencies in data reporting are such that further studies are required to compare clinical outcomes between fRPNI and vRPNI to determine if one is superior to the other. Level of Evidence: Not gradable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the impact that developments in the field of neuroprosthetics will have on the ethical viability of healthy limb amputation, specifically in cases of Body Integrity Identity Disorder (BIID). Developments in the field have meant that the prospect of such artificial components matching the utility of their biological counterparts is now a possibility. As such, arguments against the provision of therapeutic, healthy limb amputation, which are grounded in the perceived resultant harm of disability, need to be reconsidered. Drawing on philosophical insights, as well as the field of disability studies and BIID research, this paper argues that such neuroprosthetics presents a challenge for the fundamental dichotomy between the disabled and non-disabled, including the latter's perceived superiority. It goes on to suggest that healthy limb amputation, for those with BIID, should not be dismissed simply because of the distastefulness of the procedure, but rather be evaluated based upon its own merits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amputation of a limb may have a negative impact on the psychological and physical well-being, mobility and social life of individuals with limb amputations. Participation in sports and/or regular physical activity has a positive effect on the above mentioned areas in able-bodied individuals. Data concerning participation in sports or regular physical activity together with its benefits and risks for individuals with limb amputations are scarce. No systematic review exists that addresses a wide range of outcomes such as biomechanics, cardiopulmonary function, psychology, sport participation and sport injuries. Therefore, the aim of this article is to systematically review the literature about individuals with limb amputations and sport participation. MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, CINAHL® and SportDiscus® were searched without time or language restrictions using free text words and MeSH terms. The last search date was 31 March 2010. Books, internet sites and references of included papers were checked for papers relevant to the topic under review. Papers were included if the research topic concerned sports and a minimum of ten individuals with limb amputations were part of the study population. Papers were excluded if they included individuals with amputations of body parts other than upper or lower limbs or more distal than the wrist or ankle, or if they consisted of case reports, narrative reviews, books, notes or letters to the editor. Title, abstract and full-text assessments were performed by two independent observers following a list of preset criteria. Of the 3689 papers originally identified, 47 were included in the review. Most of the included studies were older than 10 years and had cross-sectional designs. Study participants were generally younger and often had more traumatic amputations than the general population of individuals with limb amputations. Heterogeneity in population characteristics, intervention types and main outcomes made data pooling impossible. In general, sports were associated with a beneficial effect on the cardiopulmonary system, psychological well-being, social reintegration and physical functioning. Younger individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations achieve better athletic performance and encounter fewer problems when participating in sports compared with older individuals with bilateral transfemoral amputations. Regardless of their amputation level, individuals with limb amputations participate in a wide range of recreational activities. The majority of them were not aware of the sport facilities in their area and were not informed about available recreational activities. Sport prosthetic devices were used mostly by competitive athletes. For football, the injury rate and pattern of the players with an amputation were similar to those of able-bodied players. Individuals with limb amputations appear to benefit both physically and psychologically from participation in sports and/or regular physical activity. Therefore, sports should be included in rehabilitation programmes, and individuals with limb amputations should be encouraged to pursue a physically active life following hospital discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]