Treatment Pathway

LOSS OF A LIMB  

The process of losing a limb through amputation is a life-changing experience.
We are dedicated to achieve the best outcome for each patient, aiming for best possible comfort, function and lifestyle.

The first phase of the prosthetic rehabilitation is the provision of an interim prosthesis. Generally, this occurs during the first few weeks following an amputation. The aims of are to establish early mobility and commence gait re-education as early as possible.

After a comprehensive assessment, a prosthetist will take a plaster cast and the interim prosthesis is manufactured. You can expect regular modification to this first prosthesis, as the residual limb undergoes significant changes in shape and volume during the first months. After approximately 3 to 4 months the prosthetic interim socket will be replaced with the first definitive socket.

The next step is to attend an accredited amputee clinic, which is offered by most major hospitals. The rehabilitation team conducts a comprehensive patient assessment and the rehabilitation specialist issues a prescription for your first definitive prosthesis.

Your prosthetist will then take a plaster cast of your residual limb. It is called a plaster negative. The plaster negative is then used to make a replica of your residual limb, which is modified to achieve a comfortable socket.

The socket is then moulded over the plaster model. The materials used to manufacture your socket are fibre-glass, carbon-fibre or specially designed plastics. Utilizing the latest manufacturing technologies and high-tech materials ensures a durable and extremely light socket.

Various liner materials are used to act as a cushion between the socket and your residual limb, absorbing and dissipating shock-, shear- and torque-forces that occur during walking and standing on your prosthesis.

Next, the prosthetic components are connected to the socket and you return for the first fitting to our facilities. During this process one of our highly skilled prosthetists assesses the socket-fit and analyzes your gait. The correct alignment of your prosthesis is essential to ensure optimum comfort and function.

The prosthesis is now trialed for several days. After the successful completion of the trial period the prosthesis is cosmetically finished, to deliver a pleasing asthetic result.

As the shape and volume of your residual limb will change over time, it is very important that you see your prosthetist on a regular basis (every 3 to 6 months), to ensure the socket is still fitting properly.

Sometimes it is necessary for the prosthetist to make adjustments to your prosthesis to compensate for those changes. However, if the changes are too significant a new socket (socket replacement) might be required.

Physiotherapy is a vital factor throughout the entire rehabilitation process, including muscle-strengthening exercises and gait training. We offer Physiotherapy sessions in our modern and fully equipped gymnasium tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

If you have any questions about treatment pathways, please contact APC.

View video of a patients first walk with interim prosthesis.