Introduction to Prosthetics
What is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the U.S.?
Diabetes
What does the AMP test assess in amputee patients?
Balance, mobility, and prosthetic use potential.
Which compression method requires the most skill and frequent reapplication?
Elastic bandage (Ace wrap) technique.
Why is preserving femur length important in transfemoral amputation?
Enhances control, gait efficiency, and prosthetic stability.
What is the ideal length of the residual tibia in transtibial amputation?
12–17 cm for optimal prosthetic use and control.
Name two common complications of diabetes that increase amputation risk.
Peripheral neuropathy and foot ulcers.
What functional level (K-level) is associated with high-level activities like running and sports?
K4
Why is early edema control important in prosthetic readiness?
It promotes faster healing and prepares the limb for prosthetic fitting.
What is the key difference between an ischial containment socket and a subischial socket?
An ischial containment socket encloses the ischium for enhanced stability and control, while a subischial socket sits below the ischium, offering greater comfort and hip mobility but less inherent coronal plane stability.
What is the most common contracture seen after a transtibial amputation, and why is it important to prevent?
Knee flexion contracture; it limits prosthetic fitting and gait efficiency by preventing full extension during stance phase.
What are the two main types of congenital limb deficiencies?
Transverse and longitudinal deficiencies
What does the CHAMP test measure, and who is it primarily designed for?
High-level mobility in military or athletic populations
What is the purpose of limb desensitization techniques during pre-prosthetic care?
To reduce hypersensitivity and prepare the residual limb for prosthetic use.
What are the advantages of a microprocessor-controlled knee?
Improved adaptability, stability, and energy efficiency with real-time adjustments.
What suspension system uses a pin-and-lock mechanism?
Locking suspension with a gel liner and a pin mechanism.
What is one major racial or geographic disparity in amputation outcomes?
Minority populations have higher amputation rates, particularly due to disparities in PAD treatment
Name one patient-reported outcome measure used to assess socket satisfaction.
CLASS (Comprehensive Lower Limb Amputee Socket Survey)
What are two key goals of physical therapy during the subacute pre-prosthetic phase?
Improve range of motion and build muscle strength to support prosthetic training.
Name one issue caused by poor prosthetic suspension.
Pistoning and instability leading to skin breakdown and gait deviations.
What prosthetic socket design aims to distribute pressure evenly across the entire residual limb surface in a transtibial amputee?
The Total Surface Bearing (TSB) socket.
Why is an interdisciplinary team essential in amputation rehabilitation?
They provide coordinated care across surgical, rehabilitation, and psychosocial domains to improve outcomes.
What is the difference between AMPPro and AMPnoPro?
What is one major psychological concern following traumatic amputation, especially in younger adults?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What is the role of sagittal alignment in transfemoral prosthetics?
To ensure knee stability during stance and appropriate flexion during swing.
Why is sock ply management important for residual limb health?
To prevent poor socket fit, discomfort, and residual limb injury.