Transtibial casting techniques

Transtibial casting techniques

Ben Lucas

7/3/2007

Dear list,

My prosthetic advisor and I are trying to come up with a list of standard
(and perhaps non-standard) ways of casting for transtibial amputees.
Specifically, I was wondering what practitioner are using in regards to
amount and types of plaster (or fiberglass, if that is the case) and if you
use any splints or panels. Do you typically use only elastic or rigid
plaster? Do you circumferentially wrap the limb,or do a 2 or 3 stage
casting technique to obtain more detail in the cast? Are there other
techniques out there that you are using, such as under vacuum or with
alginate?

I am only looking at this time for manual casting techniques. I am trying
to compile this list for a research study regarding casting techniques for
my prosthetic residency? Any feedback you can provide I would greatly
welcome. I will post replies.

Thanks,

Ben Lucas, MSPO, CO, Prosthetic resident