Discussion on prosthetic-user-repair-kit

[Swagata]

Hi all,

I am conducting a research to develop a set of tools that upper
extremity amputees could use to maintain their prostheses and repair
them in a pinch (vacation). Either it would be an " all in one tool"
or it would be a set of tools necessary for repair.

We have decided to incorporate the following tools :

The Elastration Band Applicator ( http://www.syrvet.com/ehibition/ehibition_default.asp?pro_id=387
)

Extra rubber bands, extra cables, cable anchors, spectra line, screws
(cut to appropriate length) of the various sizes used

Some small sets of tools like these
http://www.superdroidrobots.com/shop/item.asp?itemid=95

A Fine Iris Surgical Scissors

A hemostat to use as a clamp, e.g. when you are adjusting a harness or
threading spectra
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_478861_478861

And a small attractive pouch to carry all this stuff while on vacation
or for a conference.

Would love to have your suggestions as to what should be contained in
the tool kit and whether you prefer an "all in one tool kit" or a
number of small tools in the tool kit.

Thanks

[Bill]

I'm very much in accord with Simon's comments about the ridiculous
repair costs, but more I'm concerned about the interlocking medical/
prosthetic industry, which treats us as diseased "patients" and our
prosthetics as integral body parts. Granted, it takes expertise to
make a well-fitting socket, but at the other extreme, I sit in a
prosthetist's waiting room for 15 minutes and pay $50 for half an
hour's work just to get a small part replaced on my wrist, at a huge
markup -- a part which I could have replaced myself in less time and
at much less cost had I been able to buy it directly from the
manufacturer. We need a more precise demarcation between what is the
province of the skilled professional, and what is a simple mechanical
tool. I mean, if I can replace a bicycle cable or rebuild a
carburetor, why should I be prohibited from buying a part for my
wrist, or a new hook, or a new cable and putting it on by myself? So,
I guess what I'd want in a toolkit is access to tools that are really
necessary for my life. I do a lot of technical, "fine motor" work in
remote areas of Central America where spare parts are inaccessible, so
I need spares -- I can't afford to wait till I fly back to the U.S. to
see a prosthetist till I can get my pros working again.