The margin extends to approximately 3cm to 4cm above the wrist (just above the ulna protrusion) and can be covered by a watch or a bracelet. All hands have custom made acrylic fingernails, painted to match the patient. However, in cases where the residual digits are too long to allow acrylic retention, silicone nails are used. All solid silicone fingers can be posed to vary the appearance of the hand. When necessary, foam inserts are incorporated in the palm area to save weight and give a more natural feel.

Margins extend to the typical ring location and can usually be hidden under the ring. All finger prostheses have custom made acrylic fingernails. However, in cases where the residual digits are too long to allow acrylic retention, silicone nails are used. (With amputations shorter than 1.5cm, special provisions must be made to hold the prosthesis on the stump.)

The prosthetist supplies the prosthesis complete with fitted rigid socket terminating with a palmer extension to the proposed location of the MCP joints. ARTech will fabricate a total hand covering the palmer extension and a 2mm to 3mm silicone skin covering the socket to the margin. The skin over the arm will assume the same shape as the prosthesis which is produced by the prosthetist. The covering can be removed for repairs to the prosthesis if necessary.

The prosthetist supplies the myo-electric prosthesis (with hand). ARTech's aesthetic silicone covering fits directly over the mechanical hand and can easily be removed for repairs to the myo. ARTech has developed a unique fingertip reinforcement system which is an integral part of the silicone covering. This system dramatically reduces the rupturing and twisting problems which commonly occur with other myo coverings. Myo coverings have silicone nails for better flexibility and durability.

The margin is usually at the ankle area (encompassing the heel). Heel lifts or corrective buildups in the sole area can improve the gait and posture. When necessary, foam inserts may be incorporated into appropriate areas to save weight and allow the prosthesis to be compressed into shoes. The remaining solid silicone gives a natural propelling action.

ARTech's standard (reduced cost) foot prostheses will have the same general production specifications as the custom made foot but will be made from existing molds. ARTech will select the mold which most closely matches the anatomical features and size of the patient's sound foot in accordance with the stone models provided by the prosthetist.

The prosthetist supplies the structural prosthesis complete with undersized keel-dynamic response foot (SACH foot or similar) and fitted socket finished in foam or laminate to the proper leg shape. ARTech will fabricate a custom made foot and silicone skin covering the prosthesis up to the margin. The skin over the leg will assume the same shape as the prosthesis which is produced by the prosthetist. The covering can be removed for repairs to the prosthesis if necessary.

Margins will blend into the tissue of the residual stump as required. Adhesives, socks or nylons will hold the prosthesis in place. Silicone toe prostheses may prevent the remaining toes from migrating into the amputation space.

Typical margins are at the ankle area and just below the knee. The prosthesis can be specially reinforced to reduce "drop foot".

Although ARTech specializes in aesthetic restorations for limb extremities, facial prostheses are available on special request. We are also developing new products such as a lower cost, standard myo coverings and an anatomically correct, electronic hand device for myo patients.