Silicone roll-on suspension for upper limb prostheses: users' views.

Abstract

To determine the perceived benefit, pattern of use and problems of the ICEROSS socket for upper limb prostheses. Structured questionnaire sent to patients provided with ICEROSS systems. NHS artificial limb clinic. All patients (20) who have used an upper limb prosthesis with an ICEROSS inner socket between 1995-1999. Purpose-designed questionnaire. Replies were obtained from 18 patients. Eight (8) amputees continue to use their ICEROSS limb regularly (44%) after a mean of 32 months. Ten (10) amputees stopped using the ICEROSS system. Six (6) developed persistent skin problems, 2 switched to myoelectric prostheses, 1 was unable to put the ICEROSS on independently and 1 amputee stopped using all kinds of prostheses because he did not find them useful. Fourteen (14) amputees complained of phantom pain, 4 of whom reported worsening of the pain with ICEROSS sockets. The ICEROSS socket provides good suspension for upper limb prostheses, but its use is limited by skin problems and incompatibility with myoelectric contacts.