Name of the Procedure:

Knee Orthosis, Elastic with Joints, Prefabricated (HCPCS Code: L1810)

Common names: Elastic knee brace with joints, customized knee support.

Summary

A knee orthosis is a type of brace designed to support, align, or enhance the function of the knee joint. The elastic knee orthosis with joints is prefabricated but customized through trimming, bending, molding, assembling, or other adjustments by an orthotics specialist to fit a specific patient.

Purpose

The knee orthosis is used to provide support and stability to the knee joint, often for patients with knee injuries, arthritis, or post-surgery recovery. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further injury.

Indications

• Injuries such as ligament tears, meniscus injuries, or patellar tendonitis.
• Arthritis to alleviate pain and provide joint support.
• Post-surgical recovery to stabilize the knee and prevent re-injury.
• Chronic conditions like knee instability or patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: No special preparations such as fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• Assessments: The patient may undergo a physical examination and measurements to ensure the orthosis is customized correctly.

Procedure Description

1. Measurement: An orthotics specialist takes detailed measurements of the patient’s knee and leg.
2. Customization: The prefabricated orthosis is trimmed, bent, molded, or assembled to fit the patient precisely.
3. Fitting: The specialist fits the customized orthosis to the patient’s knee, ensuring it provides the intended support and comfort.
4. Adjustment and Training: The patient is instructed on how to wear, adjust, and care for the orthosis properly.

Tools and Equipment Used:

• Prefabricated knee brace
• Special tools for trimming and bending
• Measuring devices

Anesthesia or Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

The fitting and customization process typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, orthopedic office, or orthotics and prosthetics lab.

Personnel

• Orthotics specialist
• Physical therapist or assistant (occasionally)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Incorrect fit leading to discomfort or ineffective support.
• Rare risks: Skin irritation, pressure sores if the orthosis is too tight.
• Management: Follow-up visits to adjust the fit and mitigate any issues.

Benefits

• Expected benefits: Reduced pain, improved knee stability, enhanced mobility.
• Timeline: Benefits can be realized immediately upon wearing the orthosis, with continued improvement over time.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Regular inspection of the skin under the orthosis, maintaining hygiene.
• Recovery time: Immediate use, with adjustments as needed.
• Restrictions: Avoid activities that could compromise the orthosis.
• Follow-up: Scheduled visits to the orthotics specialist for adjustments.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options:
  • Other types of knee braces (rigid, semi-rigid)
  • Physical therapy
  • Medications for pain and inflammation
  • Surgical interventions for severe cases
• Comparison: The prefabricated but customized orthosis strikes a balance between cost and tailored support. Fully custom-made orthoses can offer better personalization but at higher costs.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients will feel the fitting process, which may involve some minor discomfort but no significant pain.
• After the procedure: Initial days may see some getting used to wearing the orthosis, with periodic adjustments improving comfort and effectiveness.
• Pain management: Typically, no pain management is required beyond routine care of any pressure points.