A framework for understanding prosthetic embodiment for the plastic surgeon

Abstract

Plastic surgeons play a critical role in the management of amputations and are uniquely positioned to improve the lives and functional abilities of patients with limb loss. The embodiment of a prosthesis describes how effectively it replaces a missing limb and is an important aspect of patient care. Despite its importance, the current prosthetics literature lacks a formal definition of embodiment, and descriptions are often vague or incomplete. In this narrative review, we assess the current literature on prosthetic embodiment to explore the main mechanisms of embodiment and how each allows a prosthesis to interface with the human body. In doing so, we provide a comprehensive, holistic framework for understanding this concept.

Keywords: Agency; Amputation; Embodiment; Framework; Ownership; Prosthesis; Prosthetic.