We have all seen people who have lost a limb due to an accident or some other medical condition using a prosthetic arm or leg. We have also heard about artificial heart valves and hip replacements. So, any artificial part that is used to replace a missing or malfunctioning part of our body is called a 'prosthesis'. Although this is a bit of a medical term, its meaning is very simple.
What exactly is a 'prosthesis'?
Simply put, a prosthesis is an artificial replacement for a part of your body. That is, it can be used to replace a body part that was missing at birth, lost in an accident, or that does not function properly due to illness.
These can be divided into two main parts:
1. External Prostheses: These are the most common. For example, an artificial arm or leg. These are usually worn during the day and removed at night.
2. Internal Prostheses: These are things that are surgically implanted inside the body. For example, things like an artificial heart valve, hip or knee joint.
The most important thing is that 'Prosthesis' refers to that artificial device. The medical field that studies and creates these is called 'Prosthetics'. There is a slight difference between these two words.
What types of prostheses are there?
Let's look at some examples of these. Then you will have a good idea about this. To understand this clearly, let's look at two tables, one for external mounting and one for internal mounting.
| External Prostheses | |
|---|---|
| Prosthesis type | Simple explanation |
| Artificial hands, feet, fingers | They are used to replace an arm, leg, finger, or toe lost due to an accident or illness. |
| Ocular prosthesis | When an eye is removed, an artificial eye is used to replace it for appearance. |
| Breast prosthesis | Artificial breasts that can be worn under underwear after a breast has been removed for reasons such as cancer. |
| Colostomy bags | A pouch that is attached externally to allow stool to pass when part of the intestine is removed. |
| Dentures | Artificial teeth used when all or part of the teeth are lost. |
| Internal Prostheses | |
|---|---|
| Prosthesis type | Simple explanation |
| Joint replacements | Metal parts that are surgically inserted to replace worn-out hips, knees, or other joints. |
| Mechanical heart valve | Artificial valves are used to replace valves in the heart that are not working properly. |
| Intraocular lenses (IOL) | During cataract surgery, an artificial lens is inserted into the eye to replace the natural lens. |
| Electronic voice box | An electronic device that helps people speak after the larynx has been removed. |
| Dental bridges | Artificial teeth that are permanently attached to the jawbone to replace a missing tooth or several teeth. |
Who needs these?
There are many reasons why a prosthetic limb may be needed. For example, some people may be born without a body part. Others may lose a body part due to an accident or illness.
The following reasons can be considered:
- A serious accident: When a major accident occurs and a body part cannot be restored.
- Cancer: When a body part (e.g., a breast, an arm) needs to be surgically removed due to cancer or the risk of cancer.
- Amputation: When a hand or foot has to be surgically removed due to a serious accident, complications from diabetes, or blocked blood vessels.
- Congenital defects: A condition in which a body part is underdeveloped or absent at birth.
- Delayed payments: Conditions such as arthritis or cataracts due to prolonged use.
- Chronic diseases: When the relevant organ does not function properly due to long-term medical conditions such as heart valve diseases and intestinal diseases.
What are the benefits of a prosthesis?
The benefits of prosthetics vary. Some are primarily cosmetic . For example, an artificial eye or breast. These can help a person feel more confident in society.
The other type is functional enhancement. These restore lost function to a body part. The benefits of this are greater than you might think.
- It helps you talk, chew food, and see things.
- You can bend your knees, walk, run, and even play sports.
- You will be able to grasp things, work with your hands, and operate a computer or drive a vehicle.
- All of this gives you a lot of mental strength and confidence when you can do your own work.
Aren't there risks and challenges?
Of course, like everything else, there are challenges and considerations to be made on this journey. Getting used to a prosthetic limb is not easy. It takes time, effort, and money.
Here are some disadvantages and risks to consider:
- Risks of surgery: If a prosthesis is implanted in the body, the general risks of any surgery (such as infection, anesthesia complications) may arise.
- Rehabilitation period: A long rehabilitation period is required, especially with physical therapy and occupational therapy, to get used to something like a prosthetic arm or leg.
- Lifetime maintenance: These need to be cleaned regularly, refitted, and any necessary adjustments made.
- Limited lifespan: Most prosthetics have a limited lifespan. Over time, they will need to be replaced or repaired.
- Complications: Internally implanted parts can sometimes become loose or move out of place. Externally implanted parts can cause skin wounds and discomfort.
- Medications: When living with some prosthetic devices (e.g., heart valves), you will need to take certain medications (e.g., to prevent blood clots) for the rest of your life.
There are many things to consider when making a decision like this. It can be a little overwhelming. But remember, you are not alone. There are doctors, physical therapists, and many other people who have similar experiences to help you. Talk openly about all of this with your doctor. Tell them about your needs, hopes, and fears. Then you can make the decision that is best for you.
Take-Home Message
- A 'prosthesis' is any artificial replacement for a missing or dysfunctional part of our body. These can be implanted either outside or inside the body.
- These not only restore a person's appearance, but also help greatly in improving their ability to perform daily tasks (functioning).
- The decision to get a prosthetic limb is one that requires careful consideration of both its benefits and challenges (surgery, rehabilitation, maintenance).
- Before making a decision on this, it is imperative that you discuss all your questions and concerns in detail with your doctor .
- Although this is a challenging journey, remember that there are medical teams and counselors to support you. You are not alone.
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