Outcome measures used in the evaluation of adult upper-limb prostheses - kinematic and functional aspects: A scoping review

Abstract

The abandonment rates of upper-limb (UL) prostheses are concerning and are related to limitations in the functional and kinematic aspects of the UL prosthesis. Evaluating the usability of prostheses is essential to make improvements in relation to these aspects and develop effective equipment and inform clinical results relevant to rehabilitation. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore the current state of the literature, the characteristics of studies on the topic, and the main parameters and instruments used to evaluate UL prosthesis, regarding kinematic and functional aspects. The search was performed in 7 databases using descriptors related to "Prosthesis," "Outcome Measures," and "Upper Limb." Specific data were extracted from full-text articles included in the final sample. A literature search identified 1122 articles. After analyzing the articles using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 121 relevant articles were included in the final review. Most of the studies found originated from the United States and United Kingdom, predominating quasi-experimental studies and case studies. The predominant level of disability was transradial, and the most cited type of prosthesis was electric/myoelectric. The studies predominated in the clinical context and focused on the use of functional assessments. About 101 assessment instruments in total were found, 82 (81.2%) of which were related to functionality and 19 (18.8%) related to kinematic aspects. Kinematic focus is still scarce on the evaluation of users of UL prostheses. Combining kinematic and functional assessments expands the approach and data collection with the target population. There is a need to develop instruments specifically aimed at this audience.