Name of the Procedure:

Prosthetic Sock Placement
Common name(s): Prosthetic sock fitting
Medical term: Prosthetic Sock, Multiple Ply, Upper Limb (HCPCS Code L8435)

Summary

A prosthetic sock is a specially designed fitting for an upper limb prosthesis. It serves as a comfortable layer between the skin and the prosthetic device, often used to achieve a better fit and to minimize friction and discomfort.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Amputation of upper limb segments
• Skin irritation due to direct contact with prosthetic devices
• Poor fitting of upper limb prostheses ##### Goals and Outcomes:
• Enhance comfort by reducing friction
• Improve the fit of the prosthetic device
• Aid in moisture control to reduce skin irritation

Indications

Symptoms:

• Discomfort or pain from prosthetic use
• Skin irritation or sores in the region of prosthetic contact ##### Patient Criteria:
• Individuals using upper limb prostheses
• Patients experiencing fit issues between their skin and prosthetic devices

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Clean the area where the prosthetic sock will be placed
• Dry the skin thoroughly ##### Assessments:
• There are no diagnostic tests required beforehand, but proper limb measurement is essential for ensuring the right sock size.

Procedure Description

Steps:

1. Measurement: Accurately measure the circumference of the residual limb.
2. Selection: Choose an appropriate multiple ply prosthetic sock based on measurements.
3. Application: Gently roll the sock onto the residual limb to cover it completely.
4. Adjust Fit: Ensure there are no wrinkles and that the sock fits snugly without constricting blood flow. ##### Equipment:
   • Measuring tape
   • Multiple ply prosthetic sock ##### Anesthesia or Sedation:
   • None required

Duration

• Approximately 5 to 10 minutes

Setting

• Typically performed at a prosthetic clinic or a healthcare provider's office

Personnel

• Prosthetist or trained healthcare provider
• May involve an occupational therapist for fit assessment

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minor skin irritation ##### Rare Risks:
• Allergic reactions to materials in the prosthetic sock ##### Management:
• Switching to a different material if irritation or allergic reaction occurs

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Improved comfort and fit of the prosthesis
• Reduced skin irritation and discomfort ##### Onset of Benefits:
• Immediate improvement in fit and comfort upon application

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor for signs of skin irritation
• Regularly clean the prosthetic sock ##### Recovery Time:
• No recovery time needed ##### Restrictions:
• None ##### Follow-Up:
• Regular follow-up visits to ensure proper fit and function of the prosthesis

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Gel liners
• Custom-molded prosthetic sockets ##### Pros and Cons:
• Gel liners provide additional cushioning but may require more frequent cleaning.
• Custom-molded sockets offer individualized fit but are more expensive and time-consuming to produce.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Typically no pain or discomfort; the sock should feel snug but not tight ##### After the Procedure:
• Enhanced comfort with the prosthesis
• Some initial adjustment period to get used to the feel and thickness of the sock ##### Pain Management:
• No major pain expected; any mild discomfort can generally be managed with adjustments to the fit.