Would like some imput for someone's child, but not my patient.

Would like some imput for someone's child, but not my patient.

Keith E. Vinnecour CPO

My son, was born without a tibia and fibula, yet,attached to his femur was a
small foot with
four toes.

Since birth (May 31, 2004) he has adjusted very well, and is progressing
amazingly. He is now 11 months and we are working with ( ) to enhance his
mobility. On the 29th of this month, his small foot will be removed and in six
weeks time he will be fit with a prosthesis. The doctors have said that he
will be fit with a straight leg for the first 3 or 4 years (as it will be an
above the knee amputation, since he doesn't have a knee) and then progress to a
jointed prosthesis. I understand the safety and stability of a straight leg
for such a
young child, but, to be honest, in my heart of hearts, I feel that my son
would be better off with a jointed prosthesis. I feel that if a jointed
prosthesis is something he will be using the rest of his life, to start of with
that would be the best thing to do, especially considering his highly curious
and active stage as a growing toddler.

So, I began inquiring on line, as I have until about mid June to make a
decision. One of the options that I found was the Total Knee (Junior) made by
Ossur with the geometric locking system. It seems amazing.

As my knowledge in this field is definitely limited, I'm hoping you might be
able to offer any professional advice on this matter. The cost of a
prosthesis with such a wide array of opportunities for my son, and what the pros and
cons might be.

Thanks in advance. Keith E. Vinnecour, CPO