Truck Driver with Flail UE needs functional Prosthosis - Need some opinions

Truck Driver with Flail UE needs functional Prosthosis - Need some opinions

Paul Prusakowski

11/15/2011

I am posting this for Chris. Please send all responses direct to :
<Email Address Redacted>

Thanks- Paul

 

 

 

I had a patient come to me recently with an injury suffered many years ago
resulting in a flail right upper extremity. Functionally he has scapular
elevation, retraction and protraction. Beyond that, nothing below the
shoulder except for sensation.
He has been working as a truck driver for many years until last year when
his license was revoked by the DOT. His truck is set up that he can do
everything he needs to do with his left arm, but due to old regulations, he
will not be able to drive unless he has a Prosthesis/Orthosis that would
provide him with functional powered grasp based on the DOT's guidelines. As
he stated, I would need to reach forward and grab or push a button. So,
considerations are shoulder joint, elbow and terminal device..
I was hoping to get some input from anyone that may have some experience
with such a complicated design. Componentry to look at; Design; etc...


Thanks in advance.
Christopher M. Harrington, BsCPO/LPO, PTA, BSESS
Jacksonville, Florida