UPPER LIMB PROSTHETICS-C. TRANSRADIAL SOCKETS

SUMMARY

1. Most sockets are double walled with the inner wall giving total contact fit and the outer wall matching the contour and the length of the contralateral forearm.

2. Proximally, the socket extends posteriorly to the olecranon and anteriorly to the elbow crease.

3. Self-suspending: Munster vs. North-Western design (more common as it's more comfortable)

3a. Muenster socket (self-suspended socket): An alternative to the split socket for short transradial amputees. The intimate residual limb encapsulation, flexion attitude, and high trim lines provide suspension.
- Although there is some limitation in the range of flexion-extension, this is compensated by preflexing the socket.
- When this type of suspension is used, a figure-9 harness is used for control purposes only.

4. Silicone suspension: pin lock.

5. Double walled: pull through.

6. Split socket: consists of a total-contact segment encasing the residual limb and connected by hinges to a separate forearm shell to which the wrist unit and the terminal device are attached. Used in patients with short stumps.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.