Prosthesis
Pronunciation: pros-THEE-sis
An artificial device that replaces a missing body part lost through trauma, disease, or congenital condition.
Full Definition
A prosthesis is an artificial device designed to replace a missing or non-functional body part, restoring form, function, or both. In editorial contexts, the plural form 'prostheses' is commonly misspelled or confused with the singular. Prostheses may be external (exoprostheses) or implanted internally (endoprostheses). The term encompasses limb prostheses, ocular prostheses, dental prostheses, and more. Editors should note the distinction between 'prosthesis' (the device) and 'prosthetics' (the field of study and practice).
Usage
Usage note: Use 'prosthesis' for the device and 'prosthetics' for the clinical discipline. The plural is 'prostheses,' not 'prosthesises.'
In Context
- "The clinical report confirmed that the patient had been fitted with a below-knee prosthesis within six weeks of amputation." — Clinical rehabilitation report
- "Editors must ensure 'prosthesis' is not conflated with 'prosthetics' when describing the device itself." — Editorial style guide