Limb loss litigation: Life after amputation
Limb loss is a devastating and life-altering experience that can significantly affect individuals in many different ways. It can occur due to various reasons, including accidents (such as motorbike accidents), medical negligence and through armed conflict. In fact, ex-armed forces personnel represent a significant portion of those affected, frequently experiencing limb loss as a result of combat injuries. Consequently, there has been a substantial rise in prosthetic production and the widespread advancement of technology to offer affected individuals access to the most cutting-edge and innovative solutions available.
With over twenty years of experience acting on behalf of survivors of life changing injuries, partner Phil Edwards specialises in amputation and loss of limb compensation claims. He shares a brief history of the prosthetics industry and how our expert solicitors can help people adjust to life after limb loss.
A brief history of prosthetics
Over time there has been a huge evolution in prosthetic technology which can even be traced all the way back to Ancient Egypt, around 3000 years ago. Here are some of the key milestones in the history of prosthetics:
Ancient origins
- One of the first-known forms of prosthesis can be traced back to Ancient Egypt with an artificial toe commonly referred to as ‘Cairo Toe’ which was discovered by archaeologists in 2000.
- The Romans also had their own piece of prosthetic history with the Capua leg, a prosthetic leg used by Roman noblemen in 300BC.
The Renaissance
- During the Renaissance, mechanics and metallurgy advancements led to more sophisticated prosthetic limbs.
- Hinges and springs allowed limited movement, enabling basic tasks.
19th/20th century and World Wars
- Throughout the American Civil War in the 1860s there was a massive increase in limb loss which led to the invention of the Hangar Leg which used rubber to cushion the heel of the user.
- Innovations like the “Stump Sock”, in the early 20th century, also improved comfort and fit.
- Through the 1900s there was a general move towards plastics from wood and leather.
- Mass production techniques made prosthetics accessible, which would be significant in the two upcoming world wars that would put huge pressures on demand for artificial limbs.
- To support this demand there was a massive increase in funding and research and ultimately the move towards lighter materials such as aluminium, plastics and leather which greatly enhanced functionality.
Present day and future
While significant progress has been made since the days of Ancient Egypt, the last decade alone has seen remarkable advancements in prosthetics technology. Examples of modern prosthetics include:
- Sensory feedback and brain-computer interface technology
- Motorised hand prosthetics
- Artificial Intelligence training software
- High-performance, lightweight running blades
- Osseointegration – where the prosthetic limb is attached directly to remaining bone
The ceiling for prosthetics is higher than ever with the current technology available. The use of artificial intelligence opens up the possibility for advancements that we cannot even comprehend currently. What we can expect is improvements in current technology and the creation of thought-controlled prosthetics and improved infection control. It is also likely that we will see the development of smaller, faster and stronger motors that create greater agility and smoother movements.
