Name of the Procedure:

All Lower Extremity Prostheses, Flex-Foot System (L5980)

Summary

This procedure involves the fitting and adaptation of a Flex-Foot system prosthesis for individuals who have lost a lower extremity. The Flex-Foot system is a type of advanced prosthesis designed to mimic natural limb movement and provide enhanced mobility and comfort.

Purpose

The primary purpose of fitting a Flex-Foot system prosthesis is to restore functional mobility and improve the quality of life for individuals who have undergone lower limb amputation. The prosthesis aims to enable walking, standing, and other physical activities with greater ease and stability.

Indications

• Lower limb amputation due to trauma, disease, or congenital conditions.
• Significant gait abnormalities or difficulties with traditional prostheses.
• Patients seeking improved mobility and a more dynamic prosthesis.

Preparation

• Consultation with a prosthetist and possibly a physical therapist to assess needs and capabilities.
• Measurement and modeling of the residual limb for custom fitting.
• Possible adjustments in medication or lifestyle habits based on healthcare provider advice.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Consultation: Patient meets with a prosthetist for an evaluation.
2. Measurement & Casting: The residual limb is measured and cast to create a mold for the prosthesis.
3. Custom Fabrication: The Flex-Foot system is customized based on the mold and patient’s specific needs.
4. Fitting Session: Patient attends a session to fit the prosthesis, ensuring it aligns correctly and provides comfort.
5. Adjustments and Training: Any necessary adjustments are made, and the patient receives training on how to use the prosthesis effectively.

Tools/Equipment:

• Cast materials for creating a mold.
• Flex-Foot prosthesis components.
• Alignment and fitting tools.

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• None required for the fitting process.

Duration

The entire procedure may take several weeks to a few months, from initial consultation to final fitting. Individual fitting sessions generally last a few hours.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in outpatient clinics specializing in prosthetics or a hospital with a prosthetics department.

Personnel

• Prosthetist
• Physical Therapist
• Occasionally, medical doctors or surgeons for consultation

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin irritation or sores at the site of the prosthesis.
• Initial discomfort or difficulty in using the prosthesis.
• Minor adjustments required for a better fit.

Rare Risks:

• Infection at the site of the residual limb.
• Structural failure or damage to the prosthesis.

Management:

• Regular follow-up appointments for adjustments and monitoring.
• Instructions on maintaining skin health and hygiene.

Benefits

• Improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
• Enhanced comfort and natural limb movement.
• Boosted confidence and quality of life.

Benchmarks for benefits realization vary but improvements can often be noted within weeks, with continuing progress over several months.

Recovery

• Immediate ability to begin wearing the prosthesis after fitting.
• Initial period of acclimatization involving physical therapy.
• Full integration and comfort typically achieved over several weeks to a few months.
• Regular follow-ups to ensure optimal fitting and address any issues.

Alternatives

• Traditional lower extremity prostheses (less dynamic and flexible).
• Wheelchair or other mobility aids (potentially less autonomy).
• The choice of alternatives depends on individual patient needs and preferences, with the Flex-Foot system generally offering superior mobility.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The fitting process is generally painless.
• The patient might feel sensations of adjustment as the prosthesis is fitted and aligned.

After the Procedure:

• Initial period of sensitivity or minor discomfort as the body adapts.
• Supportive pain management strategies if necessary.
• Continuous guidance from physical therapists to ensure comfort and maximize usage.

Patients are encouraged to actively participate in follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions to achieve optimal results.