Re: pin suspension / fleshy limbs

Re: pin suspension / fleshy limbs

Gary Seaman

5/10/2000

Hi Ted

We have been using a narrow ML type method of socket design.

I take all my measurements circumference and ML, cast reduce the cast to the
ML dimensions and do necessary anterior and lateral relief ( Very mild
because of the Alpha liner ) then build up the posterior area to my
circumference measurements.

I use Tracer CAD but it can be done by cast. The benefits are that the
weight bearing area is higher on the medial and lateral aspects, the extra
area in the posterior section allows for the excess tissue to be
accommodated. It also allows for more knee flexion. The disadvantages are
that some control is lost but I have found this to be minimal.

I have a measurement chart if you would like a copy.

Best wishes

Gary & Gloria Seaman
Durban
South Africa
<Email Address Redacted>
<URL Redacted>
-----Original Message-----
From: Ted A. Trower < <Email Address Redacted> >
To: <Email Address Redacted> < <Email Address Redacted> >
Date: 08 May 2000 07:29
Subject: pin suspension / fleshy limbs


>I've been noticing a pattern lately of much greater difficulty fitting pin
>suspension systems (Alpha) on individuals with very soft, fleshy limbs.
The
>absence of muscle tone seems to be more the issue than is the total volume
>of tissue.
>
>The thing I've noticed is that by the time the socket is fully stable on
the
>limb the socket is so tight that the knee is beginning to push up out of
the
>socket.
>
>Elongating the tissues during casting seems to help with this somewhat but
>not entirely and is specifically not advised by the folks at Ohio Willow
Wood.
>
>I'd be interested to hear other prosthetists thought and experience in this
>area. Is it reasonable to state that pin suspensions are contraindicated
in
>the presence of a flabby, fleshy limb?
>
>
>
>Ted A. Trower C.P.O.
>A-S-C Orthotics & Prosthetics
>Jackson, Michigan, USA
> <Email Address Redacted>
>
>