BELOW ELBOW PROSTHESIS

A below elbow prosthesis is tailor made for persons who have had below elbow amputation. The prosthesis is made up of a customized socket, wrist unit, optional liner and terminal device or hand. Often times the prosthesis may also comprise of a sleeve or other harness, as it depends on the suspension device used for the client.

The Procedure

The process to commence getting a below elbow prosthesis can begin as quick as a few days/weeks after the amputation. The affected person can be fit with a below elbow Shrinker which is optional in the case of upper extremity prosthetics. A shrinker is a compressive garment that is used to assist form the limb for prosthetic process and decrease edema in the remaining limb. It is comparable in idea to the usage of ace wrap, but the advantage is that the identical compression will be utilized at some point of the limb, even when donned by different people. This will additionally assist to desensitize the limb to get it prepared for a prosthetic socket. After surgery, the patient’s limb will change size and form up to the subsequent year. The shrinker will assist stabilize the limb size and provide the client a more comfortable prosthetic experience.

Liners and Cast/Scan

The next thing in the process is to have the affected person fit with a liner, if it’s necessary. Liners might also be used for upper extremity patients, however generally, clients will fit straight into a socket. If utilized, the liner is a gentle interface that the affected person wears over the skin. It is put on before the socket. The major work of the liner is to soak up the forces created when making use of your prosthesis, to preserve your remaining limb healthy, and to permit you to put on the prosthesis for longer. There are off-the-shelf and customized liners. If the remaining limb is a rare shape or very boney, customized liners might also be used.

Diagnostic Sockets

The first prosthetic socket that will be given to you is known as a diagnostic socket. This socket will be made of a clear plastic permitting your prosthetist to look into the fit and see areas of stress more easily. The socket will be put on at this appointment. Normally, these sockets are not taken home by the affected person at this time, rather they are made to be used to check alignment, functionality, and comfort at the second diagnostic fitting date.

Laminated/Final Socket

After the diagnostic prosthetic socket suits the affected person well, the laminated socket can be carried on. The laminated socket is constructed with the use of carbon fiber, which implies that it is much lighter than the plastic socket and has more tensile strength. Carbon fiber last longer, so the socket will be to sustain for a few years, depending on what it is used for any limb changes. The affected person can decide to have the socket customized to meet their desire.

The prosthesis will be worn by the affected person several times, permitting the affected person to perfect how to wear it by themselves. Size can be adjusted appropriately. Training will be carried out to assist the affected person get use to the use of the limb.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for patient general knowledge only and should not be used during any medical emergency, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Duplication for personal and commercial use must be authorized in writing by Surjen.com.