Optimizing prosthetic function and tolerance are key principles of performing an elective upper extremity amputation. It is common for upper extremity amputees to experience issues related to nonoptimal prosthetic control and pain. Targeted muscle reinnervation and regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces in elective transhumeral amputations have been introduced as techniques to address the paucity of signals that may exist for myoelectric control postamputation. These techniques require the denervation of muscle and rely on delayed muscle reinnervation to provide eventual signal amplification for prosthetic function. In addition, the fascicles cannot be separated enough to provide signals to each individual muscle. Use of native innervated forearm musculature can provide more immediate and specific signals for prosthetic use. These native muscles are often not available for use due to trauma, denervation, or dysvascularization. In elective amputations, they can be used as spare parts to provide more signals for the sensors on a myoelectric prosthetic. The concept has been used in partial hand amputations and allowed for individual digital control at the terminal prosthetic device. In this study, we describe a novel technique used for an elective transhumeral amputation utilizing native innervated, vascularized musculature to provide intuitive control of a myoelectric prosthetic.
Copyright © 2021 The Authors. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.