Biomedical Engineering and Veterinary: Prototype of a Prosthetic Forelimb for Canines

Amputation is a surgical procedure in which a limb is removed from the body due to injury or disease. The prosthesis is an adaptable device that replaces a missing part of the canine's body. This research was established with a quantitative and quasi-experimental approach, the V-methodology and the hierarchical design model have been applied for the development process of the prototype. The fabrication of the prototype has been divided into one macro-domain: biomechanical system, with four specific layers: materials, mechanics, canine anatomy, and prosthesis construction. 3D printing and modeling of parts was used to assemble the prototype. Software simulations were used to determine the strength, deformation and safety factor of the materials used in the parts. Likewise, an analytical model of the prototype has been made in hierarchical methodology and analysis of canine locomotion prior to the use of the prosthesis. The results of this research have shown that the present prototype is able to support the weight of the dog and to be a support for the recovery of its natural mobility abilities, but requires a longitudinal approach to document and assess the long-term functionality of the prosthesis to the subject of study.