Implementation of a Custom 3D-Printed Near-Immediate Postoperative Prosthesis after Upper Limb Amputation

Introduction: Delays in prosthesis implementation after upper limb amputations (ULA) can prolong rehabilitation and contribute to prosthetic disuse. Prosthetic fitting within the first 30 days after amputation, referred to as the “golden period,” has historically been associated with improved longitudinal outcomes and prosthetic acceptance. Although the utility of immediate postoperative prostheses has been described for lower limb amputations, their application in upper limb loss remains largely unexplored. Objectives: To describe the fabrication and clinical use of a three-dimensional-printed, body-powered near-immediate postoperative prosthesis (nIPOP) for patients with ULA. Study Design: Descriptive technical note based on the clinical experience of a multidisciplinary upper limb loss clinic using the nIPOP. An approach to early upper limb prosthetic fitting is presented, describing the design, fabrication, and application of the nIPOP within 8–30 days after amputation. Results: Implementation of the nIPOP at our clinic has demonstrated feasibility and effectiveness in facilitating early prosthetic use and rehabilitation completion. Conclusions: Early prosthetic fitting may enhance psychological adjustment, promote foundational skill acquisition, and improve long-term prosthetic retention and rehabilitation outcomes. Clinical relevance statement: The described approach utilizes computer-assisted design and three-dimensional printing to produce a near-immediate intermediate prosthesis after ULA that facilitates earlier fitting and rehabilitation, supporting improved functional recovery and psychosocial adjustment.