01501nas a2200253   4500000000100000008004100001260001700042653001100059653002700070653004200097653001100139653001200150653001100162653003200173653001000205100001500215700001500230700001600245245008400261300001000345490000600355520087200361022001401233       1993                            d  c1993 Oct-Dec10aBrazil10aDifferential Threshold10aHealth Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice10aHumans10aleprosy10aNylons10aPhysical Therapy Modalities10aTouch1 aLehman L F1 aOrsini M B1 aNicholl A R00aThe development and adaptation of the Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments in Brazil.  a290-70 v63 a<p>The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the complexities of adapting technology and developing the sensory testing technique of the Semmes-Weinstein (S-W) monofilaments in Brazil to enable early detection and monitoring of peripheral nerve function in Hansen's disease (Hd). This history of the adoption and implementation of the use of the S-W monofilaments in Brazil follows the sequence described in adoption and diffusion theory of innovations. As a result, the availability of the S-W monofilaments produced in Brazil facilitated the utilization of this sensory testing technique in Brazil. In addition, the Brazilian model proved to be more accessible, durable, portable, and practical in meeting local needs. It improved health care worker awareness of and desire to use better sensory testing technology, making it possible to prevent disability.</p>  a0894-1130