Name of the Procedure:

Addition to Lower Extremity, Thigh/Weight Bearing, Ischial Containment/Narrow M-L Brim Molded to Patient Model (L2525)

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves adding a specially molded support to the thigh area of a lower extremity prosthesis. This support, customized to fit the patient's unique anatomy, helps improve weight-bearing capability and overall comfort.

Purpose

This procedure is designed for individuals who use a prosthetic limb and need enhanced support for their lower extremity. The goal is to provide better weight distribution, improved stability, and increased comfort, ultimately enhancing the patient's mobility and quality of life.

Indications

• Patients with above-knee amputations.
• Individuals experiencing discomfort or instability with their current prosthesis.
• Situations where better weight distribution is necessary for daily activities.
• Users needing a more customized fit for their prosthetic limb.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to maintain a stable body weight before the procedure.
• Pre-procedure assessments might include measurements and molds of the thigh area.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are generally required.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: An evaluation of the patient’s current prosthetic limb and any issues they're experiencing.
2. Molding Process: Creating a detailed mold of the patient's thigh to ensure a personalized fit.
3. Fabrication: The ischial containment/narrow m-l brim is crafted based on the mold.
4. Fitting: The new addition is attached to the existing prosthetic limb, and adjustments are made for optimal fit and comfort.
5. Final Adjustments: Any necessary tweaks are performed to ensure the patient feels comfortable and the support functions correctly.

Tools and Equipment:

• Molding materials (e.g., plaster or 3D scanning technology).
• Prosthetic fabrication tools.
• Specialized prosthetic components.

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required, as this is a non-invasive procedure.

Duration

The entire process can vary but typically takes a few weeks from the initial assessment to final fitting, with each appointment lasting around 1-2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a specialized prosthetic and orthotic clinic.

Personnel

• Certified prosthetist.
• Prosthetic technicians.
• Occasionally, physical therapists for gait training and assessment.

Risks and Complications

• Potential for initial discomfort as the patient adjusts to the new addition.
• Risk of skin irritation or pressure sores if the fit is not perfect.
• Rarely, improper alignment might lead to gait issues or increased wear on the prosthesis.

Benefits

• Improved comfort and fit of the prosthetic limb.
• Enhanced weight distribution and stability.
• Increased mobility and activity levels.
• Benefits are often realized within a few weeks as the patient adapts to the new support.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery required, but patients might need some time to adjust.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor fit and make any necessary adjustments.
• Instructions on care and maintenance of the prosthetic addition.

Alternatives

• Custom liners or other padding solutions.
• Different types of prosthetic limbs designed for better weight distribution.
• Physical therapy to address gait issues without altering the prosthesis.

Pros and Cons:

• Alternatives might not provide as personalized a fit.
• Physical therapy alone may not be as effective for some patients needing structural support within their prosthesis.

Patient Experience

• Patients may initially feel some discomfort as they adapt to the new support.
• Overall experience should include increased comfort and stability.
• Pain management is typically not required, but any discomfort can usually be managed with minor adjustments and follow-up care.