From the surgical to the mechanical art / J. & E. Ferris.

  • J. & E. Ferris.
Date:
1891
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: From the surgical to the mechanical art / J. & E. Ferris. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    15/34 page 11
    ->31:*}- ARTIFICIAL ARMS, The artificial arms of our manufacture are so simple in construction that it will not be necessary to give a very detailed description of them. The elbow, wrist and finger- joints are moveable, and can be used to great perfection in handling light articles. The frames of these arms are a mere shell, made of carefully selected willow, hollowed to fit the stumps. The artificial is formed in shape and size to mate the natural arm, It is then covered with calf-skin, which adds great strength, and, after being enamelled a flesh color, weighs scarcely i| lbs. for a full length arm. We do not wish the reader to anticipate that these arms can be used to great advantage in all kinds of work, for the hand and fingers can only be used in very light operations ; but for persons who follow heavy work, farming, etc., they are made so that the hand can be detached, and a hook, ring, or any instrument suitable to the wearer’s business attached ; the hand being kept neat and clean for dress purposes. Fig. 14 Fig. 14 represents an arm for amputation between the wrist and elbow joints. It is attached by lacing above the elbow ; and a single strap with loop under the opposite arm and over the shoulder, to which is attached the hand opening cord. Fig. 15 represents an arm for amputation between the shoulder and elbow joints. It is attached to the body by light web straps, which cross the back, pass under the opposite shoulder, and back to the buckles on the artificial arm. The buckle at the back is for elevating or flexing and extending the lower arm ; the operation being a slight forward movement of the stump, by means of which the elbow-joint is controlled m a very graceful manner ; the arm can be raised at any angle to suit the user.
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