[Untitled]

Marty Mandelbaum

3/11/2002

Question: Is there any one doing a lot of IPOP's?
What is current procedure about drains?

Answers

Some surgeons don't use them at all...some surgeons swear by them. If
the surgeon chooses to use a drain and you are doing a fiberglass
bandage application, simply instruct the physician to eave the drain
tube long enough to exit above the proximal trimline of the cast. I have
also made outlets for the drain to exit distally. Generally the surgeon
removes the drain during the first cast change and it is out of the way
for good. Good luck. Jim Price, M.Ed., C.P.O.

I usually run the tube inside the sock but I don't think it makes a huge
difference either way. But the drain comes out very easily and without
huge incident or excessive bleeding in the cast. We do cast changes at
one week anyway so if they want to wait that long (usually not) they can
pull the drain then. Good luck. gb

Currently, The best IPOP is the Flotech system for BKs only. The AK
version sucks. The Flotech is an off the shelf three stage prepratory
system that really works well on controlling flexion contractures and
swelling while the limb is healing post-op. The 3rd part of the system
is a walking leg that can be used as soon as seven days post-amputation
with 20% weight bearing. -Mike Kogan, CP.

Hey Marty, hope all is well. With the IPOPS we are leaving in the drain
and casting it in the socket. The surgeon then is able to pull it out
the top when ready. Doesn't seem to be a real problem. Good luck gb

Marty - I personally don't like the results from the pre-fabs (e.g.
Aircast, APPOPS) and prefer to do it old-school with plaster. Lately
have noticed more surgeons are NOT using drains, but if used it is easy
to accomodate that line into a plaster IPOP.



Marty Mandelbaum CPO

M. H. Mandelbaum Orthotic & Prosthetic Services, Inc.

116 Oakland Avenue

Port Jefferson, NY 11777

631 473 8668

631 473 8691 fax

www.MHMOandP.com

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