Hand prostheses

Mechanical hand prostheses work through a mechanical system (via a cable) that uses the movement of the shoulder or upper arm to open and close the (prosthetic) hand. The cable and harness system, which converts body movement into mechanical grip, allows the user himself to apply force to open and close a hook or prosthetic hand. This robust, lightweight prosthetic hand requires no electronics and is ideal for practical, labour-intensive tasks and sports.

The best hook prosthesis depends on your amputation level and the activities you aim for. Below, we list the most common grasping hands or hooks we offer at Amputee Care Center. Visit us for a (free) consultation. Together, we will determine which hook or prosthetic hand suits you best:

• Passive hook prosthesis: This hook prosthetic hand or grasping prosthesis primarily serves a cosmetic purpose. The hook is sturdy and has no moving parts. A simple hook prosthesis can provide light support functions such as stabilising objects and is considered very practical by many people with a hand amputation.
• Body-powered hook prosthesis: This prosthetic hand is mechanically operated by body movements, often via a cable and harness system connected to the shoulder or upper body. Specific movements allow the user to open and close the hook, offering direct and intuitive control.
• Myoelectric hook prostheses: These myoelectric-controlled hook hands use electrical signals generated by muscles to operate the hook. Muscle signals are captured by sensors on the skin, which then control the hook for more advanced movements. There are also hybrid solutions that combine with mechanical hooks. 

Our specialists at the ACC team will be happy to help you choose the right myoelectric prosthetic hands. In an introductory meeting, we will discuss your lifestyle, needs and preferences in order to find the best solution together. Request a free, no-obligation consultation and come test these prosthetic hands with us;

Michelangelo myo-electric hand prosthesis

Ottobock's Michelangelo hand prosthesis is a safe choice. This myo-electric prosthetic hand allows us at Amputee Care Center to make a good prosthesis with a number of important advantages, including:

• A natural design.
• Flexible thumb movement.
• Multiple grip shapes for different tasks.
• Intuitive control via muscle signals.
• Highly precise movements.

i-Limb Quantum myo-electric hand prosthesis

This advanced, multi-articulating myo-electric hand prosthesis features individually moving fingers and a thumb, enabling natural movement and functionality. The i-Limb Quantum uses titanium fingers that have a 50% higher load capacity, offer up to 30% more grip strength and 30% higher speed for an enhanced user experience. A unique feature of this prosthesis is the ability to change grip modes through simple gestures, making the operation intuitive and user-friendly.

At the Amputee Care Center (ACC), we are happy to help you choose the prosthesis that best suits your needs, lifestyle and budget. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation and find out how you can increase your own ability with an innovative bionic prosthetic hand and some practice!

Hero bionic hand prosthesis

The Hero Arm hand prosthesis from Open Bionics is a lightweight, 3D-printed bionic hand with six grip patterns in a breathable socket design, providing greater comfort and flexibility. Compared to other bionic prosthetic hands, the Hero Arm is lighter, more affordable and offers more personalisation options with interchangeable covers. It is the most popular choice among teenagers, young adults and active adults who want a top prosthesis with a futuristic look. 

Bebionic bionic hand prosthesis

Ottobock's Bebionic hand is an advanced bionic prosthesis with individually moving fingers, allowing for natural and precise hand movements. With multiple grip patterns and a powerful grip, this prosthesis offers versatility for everyday tasks, from typing to holding delicate objects. With a robust and ergonomic design, the bebionic hand ensures a comfortable fit and reliable performance. 

i-Limb Ultra bionic hand prosthesis

Össur's i-Limb Ultra is an advanced bionic hand with individually powered fingers and a rotating thumb, allowing for natural and precise hand movements. Thanks to its titanium-reinforced fingers, this prosthesis has increased durability and can handle heavier loads. With multiple grip patterns and intuitive control via muscle signals or a mobile app, the i-Limb Ultra offers flexibility in daily use. This ensures improved independence, allowing you to effortlessly perform activities such as writing, eating and grasping objects.

Yes, for this purpose we at Amputee Care Center design special sports prostheses specifically for the sport you would like to play. Think cycling, tennis, climbing, surfing, skiing and swimming. Examples include:

• Hand prostheses for cycling and motorcycling: designed for maximum grip and stability on the handlebars.
• Hand prostheses for climbing: made of extra-strong materials for holding climbing parts.
• Hand prostheses for swimming: made of water-resistant materials and lightweight for optimal movement in water.
• Hand prostheses for boxing and other martial arts: made with shock-absorbing materials for extra protection.

It takes practice (6-12 weeks) to learn to use a first or new prosthesis smoothly, especially with a prosthesis with a myo-electric or bionic hand. Lots of practice and patience are essential for optimal use. Of course, you are not alone. A prosthesis coach will help you get through the difficult phase and support you to get the most out of your prosthesis.

Yes, getting used to a hand prosthesis or prosthetic hand is necessary and happens step by step. The prosthetist helps by optimising the fit and comfort and making adjustments for pressure points or discomfort. With training and exercises, you will learn to use your prosthesis correctly, from simple movements to everyday actions. In the case of a bionic or myo-electric prosthetic hand, the prosthetist helps with correct sensor adjustments. In addition, you can ask for psychological support or coaching. We also give you advice on gradually building up wearing so that you can get the most out of your prosthesis and gain confidence in using it. At Amputee Care Center, we pride ourselves on our unique package of total care. Ask about it!

It is very important to clean your hand prosthesis regularly to keep it working properly. We also strongly advise you to have your prosthesis checked, fine-tuned and maintained in our prosthetic workshop every year. Annual maintenance of your prosthesis is completely free of charge in most cases, even if the prosthesis was not purchased from us. This is very important for a longer life of the prosthesis and also for maintaining the warranty on certain parts.

The lifespan of a hand prosthesis depends on the type of prosthesis, intensity of use and maintenance.

• Mechanical prostheses (such as body-powered graspers or hooks) sometimes last up to 10 years, as they are robust and less prone to wear and tear.
• Myoelectric and bionic hand prostheses have an average parts warranty of 2-3 years. On average, these prostheses last up to 5 years.
• Prosthetic sleeves and sleeves are usually replaced every 1 to 3 years, depending on growth, wear or thinning or thickening of the residual limb.

Regular maintenance, calibration and any repairs will extend the life of a prosthesis. In all cases, annual maintenance is crucial for the longevity and warranty of the prosthetic components.

Ottobock's Michelangelo hand prosthesis comes with a standard 2-year warranty, which includes a maintenance service after 12 months. There is an option to extend the warranty by 1 year, including an additional servicing after 24 months. Warranty coverage is thus possible for 3 years. 

For the most up-to-date information on warranty conditions and options, it is advisable to contact us or the manufacturer Ottobock directly.  

The Hero Arm from Open Bionics comes with a standard 12-month warranty, which covers any manufacturing defects or failures. For more comprehensive coverage, Open Bionics also offers extended warranty packages, which can provide up to 5 years of protection and also cover accidental damage. 

When purchasing a new prosthesis, ask about the available warranty options or contact Open Bionics directly for the most up-to-date information.

Össur's i-Limb prosthetic hand comes with a standard 2-year warranty, which covers any manufacturing defects and failures. There is also an option to extend the warranty to 5 years, depending on the model chosen and the specific conditions.

For the most up-to-date and detailed information on warranty conditions and extension options, it is advisable to contact Össur directly or ask when visiting the Amputee Care Center.

Yes you can! Of course it is possible to drive a car with a prosthetic hand, both in Belgium and in the Netherlands. There are, however, specific procedures and rules per country that you must comply with to ensure road safety. In most countries, you must be able to drive the car with one hand in case of emergency.

• In Belgium, it is compulsory to have your driving skills tested by the CARA. A GP can request this test for you.
• In the Netherlands, you can apply for a so-called ‘certificate of fitness’ from the CBR for driving with a hand prosthesis. Sometimes the CBR determines that driving is only possible with a special prosthesis or adaptation to the car. 

It is essential to follow these procedures and obtain the necessary certificates or declarations before you hit the road. 

Yes, at Amputee Care Center we make customised solutions for different professions. Think of prostheses with a firm grip for manual rough work or delicate models for artists and musicians.

At Amputee Care Center, we help you every step of the way, from pre-amputation counselling to the right prosthesis, psychological help, prosthesis coaching and training.