Science, medicine, and the future: Artificial limbs

摘要

In recent years technical innovations have combined to make artificial limbs much more comfortable, efficient, and lifelike than earlier versions. Future innovations are likely to depend on the interaction between three powerful forces-amputees' demands, advances in surgery and engineering, and healthcare funding sufficient to sustain development and application of technological solutions. This article looks at the innovative new prostheses that are currently available and discusses future developments.