Transfemoral Prostheses

Either modular or exoskeletal structures may be fitted with transfemoral amputation. A clear example of the developments that have been made in prosthetics is modular transfemoral prostheses. Significant innovations have been made about the fitting of prosthetic sockets, socket materials, and prosthetic components that are industrially prefabricated. The use of wood to create transfemoral sockets has been increasingly replaced by thermoplastic materials and lamination resins.

 

With the assistance of a computer, the design and production of sockets can be carried out. An optimistic model is sculpted based on measurements of the residual limb of the patient using special software. This is used for making a socket for thermoplastic testing.

 

To the wide variety of knee joints, prosthetic feet, and adapters, a number of new prototypes have been introduced. In particular, for geriatric patients, modules are used to fulfill their needs with a high degree of stability and comfort.

 

Further criteria that the different knee joints must meet are flexibility during the stationary face and regulation of the range of motion during the swing process. Today, hydraulic stance face control helps users to walk downstairs step by step, while electronic regulators help users walk by changing resistance at different speeds.

 

The choice of the prosthetic foot’s knee joint depends on the patient’s profile, residual limb function, and objectives of therapy, as well as the experience gained during fitting. The modular prosthesis’ foam cover gives it a predominantly natural look. The outline of the contralateral leg is custom-formed.

 

Many young and athletic patients remove the cosmetic cover completely and prefer the prosthesis to have an athletic look. They are able to produce amazing results in disability sports with the use of specially adapted prostheses.

This has proved to be effective after surgical healing. By applying hot air, the pre-shaped socket made of thermoplastic material is shrunk directly into the contours of the residual limb.

 

This interim prosthesis is used before the definitive prosthesis is made. The selection of the required definitive prosthesis is also assisted.

In the case of very short transfemoral residual limbs, often the only possible remedy is the use of tilting socket construction. A hip joint is connected distally to the prosthetic socket with a lock. This can be deactivated for sitting.