User-Centered and Technical Requirements for Myoelectric Pediatric Arm Prosthesis Design: A Preliminary Study
摘要
Developing pediatric prostheses that are seamlessly accepted by children with upper-limb malformations remains a challenge, with no existing solutions fully meeting their needs. Understanding their daily routines and perspectives is essential for defining user-driven technical requirements to enhance prosthetic adoption and usability. This study applied semi-structured interviews, following Thematic Analysis and principles of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, with congenital arm amputees (n = 6), caregivers (n = 7), and healthcare professionals (n = 5) to identify key prosthetic requirements. Comfort, functionality, and movement versatility were identified as key priorities, with essential activities including eating with cutlery, tying shoelaces, cycling, and object manipulation. Findings highlight the importance of involving stakeholders in the development of human-machine systems like myoelectric prostheses.