Terminal Device
Also written as: TD — Terminal Device
The functional end component of an upper-limb prosthesis, such as a hook, mechanical hand, or myoelectric hand.
Full Definition
A terminal device (TD) is the distal functional component of an upper-limb prosthesis that substitutes for the hand and fingers. Terminal devices include passive (cosmetic) devices, body-powered hooks and hands (operated via a harness-and-cable system), and myoelectric hands controlled by electromyographic signals from residual limb muscles. In documentation, the abbreviation 'TD' is accepted in clinical and technical contexts after first use. Editors should not substitute 'prosthetic hand' generically, as terminal devices encompass hooks and other non-hand configurations.
Usage
Usage note: Do not default to 'prosthetic hand' as this excludes hook-type terminal devices. Use 'terminal device' as the inclusive generic term and specify type where clinically relevant.
In Context
- "The patient trialled both a voluntary-opening hook and a myoelectric terminal device before selecting the latter." — Upper-limb prosthetics assessment report
- "Abbreviate 'terminal device' as 'TD' after first mention throughout the clinical protocol document." — Editorial style note