“High-quality, individually tailored prosthetic care, supported by an interdisciplinary team, is the key to true participation.”
Brittas Story
Breaking New Ground – Working at the Operating Table with a High-Tech Prosthetic Hand
Hello! My name is Britta, and I have been working as an operating room nurse for many years. Over time, I advanced to become Head Operating Room Nurse.
A Successful Return to Work After an Arm Amputation
Eight years ago, a workplace accident resulted in the amputation of my left forearm and turned my life upside down. I have always loved my profession and could never imagine pursuing a different career. Despite the skepticism I encountered, I was determined to prove—to myself and to others affected by limb loss—that vocational rehabilitation is possible, even in professions that require manual dexterity and fine motor skills.
As part of my rehabilitation process, I was supported by an interdisciplinary team that worked closely together and coordinated with the funding providers. This gave me the opportunity to return to the operating room, where I could retrain and refine the skills I rely on every day. My goal was to relearn and automate the movement patterns required for my profession while making the best possible use of the available grip patterns of my new prosthetic hand. During this time, I realized that motivation alone is not enough. A successful return to work is only possible with the right prosthetic solution.
VINCENTevolution in Everyday Practice: Grip Patterns, Strength, and Precision for Clinical Use
With the myoelectric, waterproof VINCENTevolution, I finally found the prosthetic hand that best meets my requirements and can be adapted to my individual needs. Combining strength, precision, and sensitivity, it is the ideal multi-articulating prosthetic hand for my daily work. I particularly appreciate the 16 different grip patterns that I use in the operating room every day - from powerful grasps to highly precise, fine motor movements. Two individually programmable grip patterns also make specialized tasks much easier. I have customized these settings myself for activities such as putting on sterile gloves or securing drill bits in a quick-release chuck.
The prosthesis' IP68 waterproof rating also plays an important role in my everyday work. I never have to worry when it comes into contact with water or other liquids, as it is specifically designed for these environments. Its seamless, textile-free silicone covering is hygienic, easy to clean, can be disinfected when required, and prevents dirt and liquids from accumulating. This not only makes my work easier but also provides additional peace of mind.
Knowing What Your Hand Is Doing Without Looking: Vibrotactile Feedback in the Operating Room
The feature that is most important in my professional life is the vibrotactile feedback of the VINCENTevolution. The gentle vibration is perceived by the brain much like a sense of touch, allowing me to feel when I switch grip patterns without having to look at the prosthesis. At the same time, the feedback lets me know when I have successfully grasped an object. When handling hard instruments that must be securely held during surgery, I can deliberately apply more force. With softer objects, I immediately feel when I have made contact and know that no additional pressure is required. This allows me to focus entirely on the surgical procedure and work with precision and confidence.
After eighteen months, I successfully completed my vocational rehabilitation program and am now fully able to perform my duties again—both during scheduled procedures and in emergency situations. Alongside my work in the operating room, I have also begun advising other individuals affected by upper limb amputations and provide comprehensive support for people navigating life after limb loss and prosthetic rehabilitation. Naturally, my VINCENTevolution is always by my side.
My experience has shown me every day that truly meaningful participation in professional and everyday life is made possible through individually tailored prosthetic care and the support of an interdisciplinary team.