Evaluation of the psychophysical detection threshold level for vibrotactile and pressure stimulation of prosthetic limbs using bone anchorage or soft tissue support

In the present study the psychophysical detection threshold levels for mechanical stimulation of 32 prosthetic limbs were determined. Prosthetic limbs were anchored to the bone by means of an implant (n=17) or supported by a socket enclosing the amputation stump (n=15). Detection threshold levels were assessed for pressure and vibratory stimulation of the prosthesis and the limb at the contralateral side (control). Following vibratory stimulation, thresholds were increased on an avarage 20% for socket prostheses, but approached those of the control for boneanchored prostheses. For pressure stimulation, thresholds were increased up to 60% for socket prostheses and 40% for boneanchored prostheses compared to the control. While boneanchored prostheses yielded significantly lower threshold levels than socket prostheses, there was no significant difference between both treatments regarding pressure stimulation. Results were applicable to both upper and lower limb amputees. It could be concluded that detection thresholds for pressure and especially vibratory stimulation of prosthetic limbs were generally higher than for control limbs. The outcome was related to the prosthetic limb design with boneanchored prostheses yielding better perception than socket prostheses.