Help

Help

Steve Scott

2/15/2012

Hi All,

 

I'm looking for some help with a particular patient. Eventhough I'm a
Prosthetist I require help with an orthotic device.

I currently am working with an 62 yo type 2 brittle diabetic individual
who has a Trans-tibial amputation on his right side which is fine and no
problems and, in fact , is his good leg. However, his left side is a
different story, after years of enduring infections and developing
osteo-myelitis and continuing to reject amputation of that limb he had
his surgeon remove only the calcaneus. So he's left with a diabetic
foot and leg but no calcaneus to bear weight through, we need to
off-load that area to prevent breakdown and have tried PTB orthosis, all
of which have had breakage issues, issues of swelling or have not
cosmetic enough for him. This individual has very unreal expectations
and is in denial, as he doesn't feel the need to fully off load his foot
as it doesn't hurt to walk on it (ah the joys of diabetic neuropathy),
but we have to do something.

 

Has anyone out there experienced the same type of issues? If so, how
did you handle it? Can anything be made that isn't super bulky so he
can wear the shoes of his choice?

 

Please let me know.

 

 

Cheers,

 

Steve Scott, C.P.(c)

Cascade Prosthetic Services Ltd

Calgary, AB

Ph: 403-283-7872