What to Expect: Amputation Surgery.

May 4, 2021 by Leave a Comment

The following article offers a wealth of information concerning what to expect before, during, and after amputation surgery.

The most important goal of your entire treatment—from the operation to rehabilitation, to the fitting of your prosthesis—is to restore your mobility.

Your therapy team, which includes your doctors, therapists, prosthetists—and of course, you and your loved ones—will help you achieve the most independence possible, so that you can lead an active and mobile life. On average, this rehabilitation process takes between two to six months, although this can be affected by various factors, including your level of motivation and how well your prosthesis fits.

Whether you’ve known about your amputation surgery for a while, or just found out, remember that you’re not alone. Your treatment team is there to support you, answer questions—and find the best solutions for you.

Initial examinations

If you are to undergo planned amputation surgery, you will be examined in detail several times before the surgery. Your doctors will explain what will happen both during and after the operation. Of course, if you’ve had a traumatic accident, your conversations will occur after the surgery.

During these discussions, you have the opportunity to ask any questions which are important to you. It’s a good idea to take notes of what you want to ask the doctor before the discussions so that you don’t forget anything.

Psychological support

An amputation is a big change in your life and it may be helpful to get psychological counseling. Counseling can help you work through any issues or fears you may have.

Talking to other amputees

We also recommend that you talk with peers who have also undergone amputation surgery. It is good to hear how others deal with the situation, and in many cases they’ll also be able to share tips on everything from using your prosthesis to getting the right fit. Talk to your therapy team about how best to get in contact with peer support groups.

What does ‘amputation’ mean, and why is it done?

Amputation is described as the separation of a bone in healthy tissue or the removal of a limb at a joint (exarticulation).

Amputation surgery may be necessary if an injured or diseased limb is not expected to heal and if the patient’s life is endangered as a result. Possible causes include circulation issues, infections, accidents, cancer, or a congenital malformation of the limb. In these cases, it is usually known well in advance that an amputation will become necessary. In contrast, sometimes it is necessary to amputate unexpectedly, for example due to a severe injury after an accident.

What does ‘amputation level’ mean?

The term amputation level is used to describe the location at which the body part is amputated.

The amputation level is determined by the doctor before the operation and is based on the reason for the amputation. For planned interventions, a prosthetist is normally consulted as well in order to clarify which amputation level is suitable for subsequent fitting of the prosthesis.

Foot amputation

Over twelve different amputation levels are common in the foot area. They range from a toe amputation to a metatarsal amputation or amputations in the tarsal area.

When there is less need for—or difficulty in fitting—a prosthesis that offers increased function, Cosmetic silicone prostheses are sometimes used.

Transtibial amputation

For transtibial (also known as ‘Below the Knee’ or ‘BK’) amputations, the amputation occurs through the tibia and fibula bones of the lower leg.

The transtibial prosthesis consists of a socket, which contains the residual limb (the amputated limb, colloquially referred to as the ‘stump’), a prosthetic foot as well as adapters and connecting elements. Information on these products is available here. A prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

Knee disarticulation

In knee disarticulation surgery the knee joint is separated and the lower leg is removed. The entire thigh is retained in the process.

The prosthesis consists of a socket, which contains the residual limb (the amputated limb, colloquially referred to as the ‘stump’), a prosthetic knee joint, and a prosthetic foot, as well as adapters and connecting elements. Information on these products is available here. A prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

Transfemoral amputation

In a transfemoral amputation (also known as ‘Above the Knee’, or ‘AK’), the amputation occurs through the femur, or thigh bone, of the upper leg, so that the knee is no longer present.

The prosthesis consists of a socket, which contains the residual limb (the amputated limb, colloquially referred to as the ‘stump’), a prosthetic knee joint, and a prosthetic foot, as well as adapters and connecting elements. Information on these products is available here. A prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

Hip disarticulation

During a hip disarticulation, the amputation is performed in the hip joint area. With this amputation the pelvis will be used to control the prosthesis later on.

The prosthesis consists of a socket, which contains the pelvic area, a prosthetic hip joint, a prosthetic knee joint, and a prosthetic foot, as well as adapters and connecting elements. Information on these products is available here. A prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

Hemipelvectomy

In a hemipelvectomy, the entire leg, and part of the pelvis up to the sacrum are amputated. With this amputation the pelvis will be used to control the prosthesis later on.

The prosthesis consists of a specialized socket, which contains the remaining pelvic area, a prosthetic hip joint, a prosthetic knee joint, and a prosthetic foot, as well as adapters and connecting elements. Information on these products is available here. A prosthesis can be disguised with a cosmetic cover so that it is hardly noticeable visually.

After Amputation

Immediately after the operation, the focus will be on your recovery and the healing of your residual limb. Both are important so that you can start rehabilitation soon and be fitted with a prosthesis.

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Above Knee Prosthesis – Testimonies

April 28, 2021 by Leave a Comment

I’ve been with IPS for close to 20 years and have never been disappointed. Tyra, Jessica, and Tanja are a solid team and always do their very best to ambulate their clients like myself. I’m currently in a C-Leg from Ottobock and I’m truly blessed with the Prosthetic fit.

– J.M., April 2021

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Ottobock C-Leg

April 28, 2021 by Leave a Comment

The C-Leg was the first prosthesis system to intelligently control and adapt to an individual’s gait. To do this, the C-Leg uses microprocessor-controlled hydraulics, which adapt dynamically to all walking speeds in real time. The revolutionary microprocessor receives feedback from multiple sensors 50 times a second, making adjustments accordingly. The result is a system that recognizes which phase of gait the user is in—and reacts. This keeps your knee stable when you weight it, free-swinging when you step through—and always ready to support you if you stumble offering stability. Below you will find pictures and videos of our C-leg wearing patients. If you’re interested in trying a C-leg, please give us a call. We would love to help you.

El C-Leg fue el primer sistema de protesis que controla y adapta inteligentemente a la marcha de un individuo. Para ello, el C-Leg utiliza un sistema hidraulico controlado por microprocesador, que se adapta dinamicamente a todas las velocidades del caminar en tiempo real. El revolucionario microprocesador recibe informacion de multiples sensores 50 veces por segundo, haciendo ajustes mientras sea necesario. El resultado es un sistema que reconoce en que fase de la marcha se encuentra el usuario y reacciona. Esto mantiene la rodilla estable mientras ponga peso, balanceandose libremente cuando pasa la pierna hacia adelante, y siempre listo para apoyarlo si tropieza. A continuacion encontrara fotos y videos de nuestros pacientes con pierna C-leg. Si esta interesado en probar una pierna C, llamenos. Nos encantaria ayudarlo/a.

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Ottobock C-Brace

April 14, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Innovative KAFO brace to help Post Polio, spinal cord injured, quad weakened patients walk.

Microprocessor allows patient to bend the knee while taking a step and then come down with full weight bearing on a bent knee without buckling.  No longer needing to walk stiff legged with drop locks. The images below is an evaluative device. If anyone you know is interested in an evaluation please give us a call 949-699-0600, we would love to help you.


Innovador aparato ortopédico KAFO para ayudar a caminar a los pacientes post polio, lesionados de la médula espinal y cuadriceptos debilitados.

El microprocesador permite al paciente doblar la rodilla mientras da un paso y bajar con todo su peso. El aparato ayuda al paciente mediante el soporte a la rodilla doblada sin que se caiga.  Ya no es necesario caminar con las piernas rígidas o extendidas usando ferulas o aparatos ortopedicos con bloqueos de caída. El aparato ayuda tener un paso mas fluido, seguro y natural con la ayuda de fisioterapia. Las imágenes a continuación son un dispositivo de evaluación. Si alguien que conoce está interesado en una evaluación, llámenos al 949-699-0600, nos encantaría ayudarlo.

We do not own the rights to this video. We would just like to illustrate what the C-brace might be able to do to help individuals. We do have access to setting up a trial appointment, if requested.

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IPS SMOs: Supra-Malleolar Orthosis

April 14, 2021 by Leave a Comment

This device is made with proprietary materials exclusively available through Innovative Prosthetic Solutions. This device was designed by Tyra, the goal was to make it as lo-profile, thin, and strong without compromising control. The device comes in two design styles. Best prescribed for PTTD, severe pronation, plantar fasciitis and ankle injury.

The IPS style carbon SMO can easily and inconspicuously be worn in certain types of sandals.

Filed under Lower Extremity Orthotics, SMO

KAFOs

October 30, 2020 by Leave a Comment

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Innovative Prosthetic Solutions: Bioness Day

September 29, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Bioness devices are neuro-stimulation systems designed to restore function and recovery in individuals who suffer post-stroke paralysis traumatic brain injury spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis. If you or any of your loved ones have trouble with knee instability/weakness, drop foot and/or wrist, hand and finger contractures this might be a device to consider! Please contact our office if any questions or if you would like to trial any of these devices.

Filed under AFO (short leg), FO (finger), KAFO (long leg), Lower Extremity Orthotics, Orthotics, Upper Extremity Orthotics Tagged with , , , , ,

Traveling with a Prosthesis 101

August 26, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Traveling with a prosthesis? Tips and Tricks to make sure your trip goes smooth sailing or flying!

Not knowing what to expect when traveling with a prosthetic device can be a frightening. Do not fear, here are some things to keep in mind when traveling.

Going on a trip can be exciting, especially when you are going to a new destination or visiting friends and family. However, it is also notorious for being a tedious affair, especially for those that wear a prosthesis. But the thought of preparing everything you need to ensure a hassle-free trip does not have to put a damper on your travel spirits. So, we’ve put together this handy travel guide for you to ensure smooth sailing.

Prior to scheduling your itinerary

Keep in mind your travel connections:
Some airports are larger than others, trams might need to be taken, stairs, and a lot of walking. Ensuring a proper layover and keeping in mind the airport you will be making a connection in will allow you to have a stress-free journey to your destination.

For example, bilateral above-knee amputees, expend a lot of energy just walking, and airports can be very exhausting. They are even exhausting for able-bodied individuals.  So, as you travel, you might want to keep a running list of the best and the worst airports in which to connect, and if you, unfortunately, have to stop at one of the bad ones, ensure you have enough of a layover to get where you need to go without having to rush.

Contact TSA Cares

Hopefully, you’re reading this at least a few days before your flight because it is recommended to get in touch with TSA Cares at least 72 hours in prior to departure. TSA Cares is the TSA’s dedicated helpline that assists travelers with medical conditions. If you are traveling with a prosthetic arm or leg, they will provide you with guidance on what you can expect during the TSA’s screening process. They will also be able to assist you with any questions or concerns you might have with a representative

If the representative deems it necessary, they will refer you to a passenger support specialist, who is trained to help individuals with specific needs. They can also assist you throughout the safety screening process to ensure that someone can take care of your needs.

If you want to request for a passenger support specialist, call TSA Cares at 855-2227 and 787-2227. They are open on Mondays through Fridays, from 8:00 AM until 11:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). Meanwhile, on weekends and holidays, you can speak to a representative or a specialist from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM.

Be sure to notify the TSA officer that you have a prosthetic device before screening begins. You have the option to remove your prosthetic and have the device x-ray screened. If you’d prefer to not mention your prosthetic verbally, the TSA provides a notification card which you can print out on the TSA’s website and hand it to the agent. Should you wish for a private screening, remember that you can request for it.

You can find that notification card here:

https://www.tsa.gov/sites/default/files/disability_notification_card_508.pdf

If you opt for a private screening, remember that you can ask to be accompanied by an assistant, friend, or family member who can assist you, but only after they have been successfully screened themselves. If you are not comfortable with a private screening, you have the right to refuse it, but you will still need to complete a security screening to proceed beyond the security checkpoint.

Regardless of the chosen screening method, your prosthesis will always need to undergo additional screening. The TSA officer may ask to see and touch your prosthesis but will not request or require you to remove it.

Pro tip:
Expect that you might set off security monitors, and wear comfortable, loose clothing and slip-on shoes so it’s easy to show your devices when requested. Also, get to the airport with plenty of time to spare, it’s better to get to your gate with extra time than to miss your flight due to security delays.

Prior to date of departure
First and foremost, it is important to check your prosthesis thoroughly to make sure it is in good shape. If you will be out of town for a couple of days or a few weeks it is imperative to make sure there are no cracks, leaks, etc. This is so that you have enough time to schedule an appointment with your prosthetist to make adjustments and repairs before you leave on business, vacation, or any scheduled trip.

Miscellaneous, yet important, things to keep in mind when travelling

Be mindful of hygiene. Travel exposes you to more people and places than your everyday life. Make sure you bring whatever you need in order to keep your prosthesis and your skin clean and disinfected.

If you think you might need it (ask your prosthetist), bring spare parts with you, especially because medical devices travel for free. If an airline ever wants to charge extra for a bag that contains prosthetic parts or supplies, just let them know that the bag contains medical devices; the bag should go free of charge. Do note that this only applies to bags that contain only medical devices, but some airlines are stricter than others on this rule.

Extra Things You Might Want to Pack:

– Extra prosthetic socks

– Extra socket liner

– Duct and filament tape to repair strap or buckle breaks

– Antibacterial cream for abrasions from overuse

– Spare suction valve

– Plastic bags to protect your prosthesis if you wear it around water or sand

– Phone numbers of certified prosthetists and prosthetic facilities in the area in which you are vacationing (just in case).

Here is a link to a handy prosthetic bag:

https://amputeestore.com/products/amputee-essentials-prosthetic-leg-bag

While traveling with a prosthesis may seem like a recipe for airport security disaster, it is not always the case. If you have done your research and you took the necessary steps to prepare for it, the odds are most likely in your favor.

If you have any tricks you would like for us to add to this post, please let us know in the comments! Any other questions? Please contact our office 949-699-0600.

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Thermoplastic AFO

August 12, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Patient population:  CVA, peroneal nerve injury, drop foot, mild to moderate knee buckling and others.

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What are K-Levels?

August 12, 2020 by 4 Comments

K-levels are a rating system used by Medicare to indicate an amputee’s rehabilitation potential. The system is a rating from 0 through 4 and it indicates a person’s potential to use a prosthetic device. K-level designation is important because it is one of the determining factors in the decision of componentry that can be chosen by the prosthetist for the prosthetic device.

There are a total of 5 levels (K-levels 0-4), and Medicare defines them as follows:

K-0
The patient does not have the ability or potential to ambulate or transfer safely with or without assistance and a prosthesis does not enhance their quality of life or mobility.
K-1
The patient has the ability or potential to use a prosthesis for transfers or ambulation on level surfaces at fixed cadence or speed. This is typical of a household ambulator or a person who only walks in their own home.
K-2
The patient has the ability or potential for ambulation with the ability to traverse low-level environmental barriers such as curbs, stairs or uneven surfaces. This is typical of the limited community ambulator.
K-3
The patient has the ability or potential for ambulation with variable cadence or multiple speeds. A person at level 3 is typically a community ambulator who also has the ability to traverse most environmental barriers and may have vocational, therapeutic or exercise activity that demands prosthetic use beyond simple locomotion.
K-4
The patient has the ability or potential for prosthetic ambulation that exceeds basic ambulation skills, exhibiting high impact, stress or energy levels. This is typical of the prosthetic demands of the child, active adult or athlete.

How are K-levels determined?

K-levels are determined by the clinician (prosthetist, therapist or physician), using one of the following commonly used outcome measures.
Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP)
Patient Assessment Validation Evaluation Test (PAVET)
Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ)
Timed Up and Go (TUG)
Timed Walk Tests
Distance Walk Tests

Interested in knowing your K-level or your loved one’s potential K-level? We’re here to help you reach your fullest potential. Please contact our office for an evaluation or if you have any questions!

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Video Gallery: Heather Abbott Foundation

July 30, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Filed under Blog, Lower Extremity Prosthetics, Prosthetics

KAFO (Long leg brace) Testimonies

July 21, 2020 by Leave a Comment

KNEE ANKLE FOOT ORTHOSIS

“I want to thank you again for all your help and with my new brace. I don’t cry much but when I was able to toss the football around with my 15 year old made me cry. It still makes me tear up! And the mobility I have now is awesome! Now the amazing love I received from the entire staff was by far the best one on one personal interaction I have ever received from any medical office.”

Jerry T.
Patient since 2019

“I am a huge fan of Innovative Prosthetics and the KAFO they made for me! I have been wearing a KAFO for 15 years and have dealt with several different orthotists over the years. My experience with Innovative has been exceptional and different. Prior orthotists I has seen would take a few measurements and a cast and then go make the KAFO. Tyra was different. He took such care and put so much thought into getting my KAFO right.  Prior to starting fabrication, Tyra asked me to provide video of me walking and spent time to really understand my challenges, how I live, and what I needed my KAFO to accomplish. My experience with Innovative since I received by KAFO has been equally satisfying. There are always kinks to get out with a new device and both Tyra and Jessica have been very patient with making adjustments to get my KAFO right. Now that all the adjustments have been made, I’m super happy with the final result. My KAFO is comfortable and I walk with a lot less effort! Thank you Innovative Prosthetics!”

Bobbie M.
Patient since 2019

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