Which upper limb orthosis is a motor-driven device with a complex control system that allows for grasp and is not in widespread use?

• A. Motor driven flexor hinge orthosis
• B. Dorsal wrist splint
• C. Palmar splint
• D. Airplane splint

Answer: (A)

This item tests understanding of an upper-limb device that actively enables grasp through powered actuation. A motor-driven flexor hinge orthosis uses actuators, a power source, and a control system to drive finger flexion and coordinate a grasp, rather than just holding the hand in a fixed position. That combination of motorized action and a complex control setup is what makes it not widely used in typical clinical practice—cost, maintenance, training, and safety concerns limit its routine use.

The other options are static or passive devices: a dorsal wrist splint and a palmar splint provide immobilization or support without any powered movement, and an airplane splint is another form of immobilization without motor actuation.