An “apropriate technology” trans-femoral prosthesis, using materials available in Nepal

Abstract

The use of western components and materials for prostheses is prohibitively expensive in most developing countries. In addition, local customs and conditions vary considerably from those for which the prostheses were designed. For these reasons, a trans-femoral prosthesis has been developed in Pokhara, Nepal, using entirely locally available materials, and with a view to fulfilling local requirements as far as possible. This paper describes the materials and fabrication technique for the component parts of the prosthesis, the local conditions for which it was developed, and a three year follow-up of the first prosthesis issued. Only one serious design fault was discovered during this period, and a modification to the fabrication procedure introduced. The authors believe that if this trend continues, this style of prosthesis may be useful in the future for Nepali amputees and perhaps also in other countries, particularly where mass production of components is not practical.