Article

The Department of Veterans Affairs study to optimize the DEKA Arm provided
feedback to inform optimization of the gen 2 (second-generation) prototype and
evaluate the gen 3 (third-generation) prototype. This article summarizes
recommendations to improve gen 2 and reports satisfaction and usability ratings
of gen 2 and gen 3. Data were collected from 39 subjects; 37 subjects were
included in this analysis. Of the subjects, 24 were fit with gen 2 (8 radial
configuration [RC], 6 humeral configuration [HC], and 10 shoulder configuration
[SC]), 13 were fit with gen 3 (4 RC, 5 HC, and 4 SC), and 5 were fit with both.
Usability and satisfaction were evaluated using the Trinity Amputation and
Prosthesis Experience Scale (TAPES) and study-specific usability and satisfaction
scales. Descriptive statistics were examined and prototypes compared using
Wilcoxon rank-sum. Results were stratified by configuration level and outcomes
compared by prototype. Satisfaction and usability were greater for gen 3 than gen
2. Overall TAPES scores were similar; however, scores of the TAPES aesthetic
satisfaction subscale were higher for gen 3. Compared with gen 2 users, gen 3
users were more satisfied with appearance, grips, and doffing and rated overall
usability higher. Features of gen 3, including weight, external cables and wires,
hand covering, and fingernails, would benefit from further optimization.

Langue : ANGLAIS