Name of the Procedure:

Addition, Disconnect Locking Wrist Unit

• Common names: Wrist unit addition, Disconnect wrist unit installation, Locking wrist unit adjustment
• Technical/medical term: HCPCS L6615

Summary

This procedure involves adding or adjusting a locking wrist unit in a prosthetic upper extremity. It allows users to easily disconnect and lock their prosthetic hand or other terminal devices in various positions, enhancing functionality and convenience.

Purpose

• Addresses: Loss of upper extremity, need for improved prosthetic functionality.
• Goals: To enhance the usability, flexibility, and comfort of an upper extremity prosthesis.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions:
  • Amputations or congenital limb differences
  • Users experiencing difficulty with non-locking wrist units
• Patient Criteria:
  • Existing prosthetic users needing better wrist mobility
  • New prosthetic users requiring customized adjustments

Preparation

• Instructions:
  • Maintain normal nutrition; no fasting required
  • Continue regular medications unless advised otherwise
• Assessments:
  • Fitting analysis by a prosthetist
  • Review of patient’s medical and prosthetic history

Procedure Description

• Prosthetist assesses the current prosthetic socket and terminal device
• The appropriate locking wrist unit is selected
• The unit is attached or adjusted on the prosthesis
• Ensure secure fitting and functioning through several trials and patient feedback
• Minimal to no anesthesia required as this is a non-invasive procedure

Duration

• Typically takes about 1 to 2 hours

Setting

• Performed in prosthetic and orthotic clinics or outpatient rehabilitation centers

Personnel

• Certified prosthetist
• Prosthetic technician (if applicable)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor skin irritation or discomfort due to new adjustment
• Rare Risks: Mechanical failure or malfunction of the wrist unit, managed by follow-up adjustments

Benefits

• Expected Benefits:
  • Enhanced control and stability of the prosthetic device
  • Improved daily functioning
• Realization Timeframe: Immediate usability improvements, with continued adaptation over weeks

Recovery

• Post-procedure Instructions:
  • Regular follow-up appointments to check fit and function
  • Skin care around the prosthetic interface
• Expected Recovery Time: Minimal to none; immediate adjustment period

Alternatives

• Other Options:
  • Non-locking wrist units
  • Alternative prosthetic wrist components
• Pros and Cons:
  • Non-locking units offer less control but are simpler and less mechanical
  • Locking units provide enhanced functionality with a minor learning curve

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minimal discomfort; procedures performed while seated
• After Procedure: Increased comfort and control; slight adjustment as user acclimates to the new unit
• Pain Management: Generally, none required; minor over-the-counter pain relief if needed for initial discomfort