title: The aesthetic hand prosthesis.
abstract: The high-quality aesthetic prosthesis can be equally helpful to those with acquired amputation and to those whose loss is due to agenesis. Restoring near-normal appearance improves patients' function in a global sense, enabling them to better utilize what they have in the complex socioeconomic environment of today's mobile society. The aesthetic prosthesis often also gives some prehensile assistance, providing an opposition part for remaining digits or thumb. The needs of each patient must be carefully considered, and the prosthesis must conform to the high standards of quality outlined. Its use is primarily for the unilateral amputee who is making a good adjustment to the loss with realistic expectations.
mesh_terms: D001186:Artificial Limbs / Q000523:psychology; D004954:Esthetics; D005385:Fingers; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D009262:Nails