Increasing Quality of O&P Research - March 2003

Get A Whiff of S.A.F.E. Stuff

Fabtech Systems is proud to introduce S.A.F.E. Stuff (Super Adhesive Five Minute Epoxy)-the solution to toxic, smelly acrylic "gunk." Fabtech's proprietary formula is a premixed non-sagging, ultra fast curing epoxy gel delivered by a goof-proof gun applicator. No mixing is required, there is no messy clean up and virtually no smell. Place a new tip on the applicator gun and squeeze the desired amount you need. It's that simple. Save time and money while using the incredible strength of epoxy.

Fabtech Systems
866.733.9832
staff@fabtechsystems.com
www.fabtechsystems.com

The “One-Piece Partial Foot… It’s Out of this World!”

SQ Profab, Inc. is proud to introduce the full line of "One-Piece" Partial Feet. The Pediatric, Adult and Narrow. The unique padding system provides optimal comfort for even the most sensitive patients. No more laces, straps or zippers. We can match any shape, size or color. L-Codes available upon request.

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed!

"Quality Craftsmanship at a Competitive Price"

For more information, contact:

SQ Profab, Inc.
407.293.1504 " fax: 407.293.4035
sqprofab@cs.com " www.sqprofab.com

Advanced Orthotic Designs is now Training Teams For the SMART Walker™ Orthosis

The SMART Walker" Orthosis is an advanced gait training device that provides hands-free mobility for the child with cerebral palsy or similar diagnoses who is nonfunctional in a conventional walker. Lower limb control and trunk support are provided through the use of a modular brace system and Piedro footwear. The brace system is suspended in a wheeled mobile base, which provides additional limb guidance and weight bearing adjustability. This device has provided many children with the benefits of upright posture and the opportunity to walk on their own.

For further information, contact:

Advanced Orthotic Designs Inc.
905.607.4022 " fax: 905.607.9099
walk@aodmobility.com " www.smartwalker.com

Visit our booth 219 at the AAOP Meeting

Spinal/Orthotic Solutions Introduces Complete Lineup of Fracture Bracing

Spinal Solutions and Orthotic Solutions, your one-stop central fab and orthotic warehouse, is now manufacturing and distributing a complete line of upper and lower extremity fracture bracing.  Products available include thumb, wrist-hand, forearm, elbow, humerus, ulna, ankle, AFO, tibia, splints, KAFO, and HKAFO. Each product has been clinically tested. Each product comes with our "Best Price Guarantee." Our catalog is free and comes with a coupon good towards your first order. 

For more information, contact:

Spinal Solutions/Orthotic Solutions, Inc.
800.922.5155 " fax: 800.813.8139
spinalsolution@mindspring.com
www.spinalsolution.net

Horton Announces Ankle Activator

Horton Technology Inc announces the Ankle Activator. The Ankle Activator consists of a small adapter kit that connects the control rods of the Stance - Control Knee" to the posterior channel of a Becker Double Action Ankle Joint. The standard Becker spring provides a dorsiflexion assist; two degrees of motion are sufficient to trigger the Stance - Control Knee" joints. This should be one of the simplest methods to control the joints. The Ankle Activator can be used on an all-metal KAFO, or with a UCBL-style KAFO. To see the Ankle Activator, please visit Horton Technology Inc. at Booth #13 at the Academy meeting in San Diego, CA, March 19-22.

For more information, contact:

Horton Technology Inc.
866.663.3970
www.stancecontrol.com

New Options, Inc. Offers Suspension Sleeves

New Options, Inc. offers a complete line of Adult and Pediatric Suspension Sleeves in both nylon one-sided and nylon two-sided material, with a material thickness of 1/8". New Options also offers 3 different color choices: tan, black and brown.

Adult Sleeves:

K7   Sleeve
K51 Sleeve with Flexion Knee
K52 Sleeve with Flexion Knee and Top Strap
K53 Three-Part Sleeve
K54 Three-Part Sleeve with Flexion Knee
K55 Three-Part Sleeve with Lycra Middle

Pediatric Sleeves:

PK100 (Tan), PK101 (Brown) & PK107 (Black) Sleeve
PK400 Sleeve with Top Strap
PK25 Three-Part Sleeve with Lycra Middle
Adult sizes from XS3XL; Pediatric sizes from XS2XL. Custom sizes available upon request.
L-Code Information: K7K54: L5674     K55: L5675

For more information, contact:

New Options Sports
6718 Oakbrook Blvd, Dallas, TX 75235
800.872.5488 " fax: 800.455.5488
newoptionssports@hotmail.com

New Freedom Series Ebony Footshell from SPS

A new Ebony footshell is available from SPS as a custom order for Freedom Series" prosthetic foot wearers with darker skin tones.

All feet within the Freedom Series from Freedom Innovations utilize a unique attachment at the toe lever tip, increasing energy storage and return while providing a "soft toe" assist at push-off. The "Impact Dampening Heel System" assures a soft, rolling transition at heel strike. Full-length segregation of the active carbon fiber elements provides unparalleled agility, medial-lateral bending, inversion-eversion and rotation. The Freedom Series includes:

FS1000-unitary foot design with the "angle-top" increases energy storage and return due to the longer sole plate design;

FS2000-a lower profile foot for long BK applications or configuration options demanding more clearance.

FS3000-for low to moderately active amputees with longer residual limbs.

Included are a 36-month warranty, a "no questions" return policy, and 60-day trial period.

For more information, contact:

Molly Taylor
SPS
800.767.7776, ext. 245
For Technical Questions, contact:
Jeff Green, Manager, Technical Services
800.767.7776, ext. 141
www.spsco.com

Calibrated Alignment System Provides Accurate Assessment

The Calibrated Alignment System from V-Tech Systems provides the tools necessary to easily and accurately assess alignment geometry. It can be used at any stage from prefab to post-delivery, providing an exceptional means of measuring component placement in a setup. This gives a recordable number for the position of individual components and their relationship to the overall alignment.

Components can be set to measurements and monitored as connections are made. Calibrated adjustments can be made to components with unparalleled accuracy. Easily verifiable changes to an alignment geometry can be planned, executed, and recorded. This provides uncompromising results for fabrication, alignment, and diagnostics.

For more information, contact:

V-Tech Systems Corp.
944 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06110
860.953.4545

Replacement Arts Designs Introduces ClearForm

In 2001, Replacement Arts Designs introduced the DupliCone now used worldwide for practical socket DupliCation and Reduction.

New for 2003, is the ClearForm Casting Cone. ClearForms turn clear at very low temperature and can be used to make limb impressions, instead of plaster, rigid dressings and even flex sockets. ClearForms can be reheated numerous times to make casting very cost effective. ClearForms are extremely quick and comfortable for the amputee and result in a better impression which saves modification time as well.

There are currently four BK sizes and use requires only a few simple tools.

For more information, contact:

Replacement Arts Designs, Inc.
1507 West 174th, East Hazel, IL 60429
888.534.1787
www.duplicone.com

HXT Custom Wrist Orthosis Aids Rehab

The HXT" from Allsport Dynamics is a patent-pending custom wrist orthosis that has been shown to be effective in helping with the rehabilitation of the wrist from injury or surgery. It is primarily designed to help protect the wrist from hyperextension.

Every HXT is 100-percent custom made, utilizing the range of motion analysis of the patient and from an STS

There’s a College Park Foot for Every Life Style

The compulsion for innovation continually drives College Park to advance technology and performance. Meet the Venture: a paragon of precise engineering that generates performance to suit your dynamic lifestyle without sacrificing comfort. It's the ultimate fusion of power and agility.

Why change your prosthetic foot every time you change your shoes? You need a foot that transitions with you&from the gym to the office or the trail to the pavement. The solution is finally here for the demanding lifestyle.

Life is a venture-live it.

Venture key features include:

• Multiaxial and rotation;
• Energy storing; and
• Adjustable stride control.

The College Park TruPer® Foot is the first and only multiaxial, dynamic response foot made just for kids! Finally, prosthetists have the opportunity to offer their young, active patients a foot that can truly accommodate their energetic lifestyles.

The TruPer Foot addresses the most common concerns about children's prosthetic feet. It accommodates for growth, is simple to mount, and is customizable to meet the needs of the individual amputee.

TruPer Foot key features include:

•  Transverse rotation;
•  Simple endo- or exo-skeletal finishing;
•  Sandal toe design footshell; and
•  One-year warranty.

Contact College Park today for a 30-day free trial!

The College Park TruStep® Foot offers an anatomical, multiaxial design with polycentric motion. The TruStep responds to ground reaction forces much like a natural foot does, providing the user freedom of motion in all three anatomical planes. This results in a more symmetrical gait and a reduction in energy expenditure for the user.

TruStep Foot key features and benefits include:

• Anatomical design;
• Everyday comfort;
• Customizable function;
• Increased endurance; and
• Up to a three-year warranty.

Contact College Park today for a 30-day free trial!

For more information, contact:

College Park Industries
800.728.7950 " 586.294.7950
www.college-park.com

South West Orthopedic Designs

• Less Bulky
• Less Weight
• More Support
• Washable, Breathable
• Abrasion Resistance
• Colors: Beige, Black, Brown, Green & White

The South West Ankle Brace is one of the leading brands of custom thermo-molded ankle braces made for non-operative management of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, as well as many other foot and ankle pathologies.

Clinical Conditions:

• Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
• Ankle arthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)
• Tibial tendonitis (posterior or anterior)
• Ankle, subtalor, or midtarsal trauma
• Severe pronation or pes planus
• Talocalcaneal varus or valgus
• Post CVA/Polio Syndrome

5-7 Day Turn Around

For more information, contact:
Chuck Eral
480.332.8120 " fax: 480.664.3521
ceral1@cox.net " www.pttd.com

UCO Offers New 3Form Flat Insole

UCO International introduces the 3Form^TM, a triple-layer, flat, full-length insole that is heated and molded without having to measure, using cut-and-glue materials.

Constructed of two layers of reinforced thermoplastic resin and covered by a urethane top layer, the 3Form allows the practitioner to fabricate the orthosis by heating, vacuum-forming, and trimming. An additional top layer or posting can also be added. It is available in five sizes for easy matching to each patient's cast.

The 3Form works well for patients needing additional support or comfort. For best results, the insole is heated in a convection oven at 230°F for two-three minutes, formed over a plaster cast, and trimmed to fit in the patient's shoe. By using the 3Form, fabrication time of a pair of orthoses can be reduced by 15-20 minutes.

Available in five double metric sizes, the 3Form will fit most shoe sizes and widths. It is $15.95 a pair or $13.95 a pair for quantities of 25 or more.

For more information, contact:

UCO International
800.541.4030
www.ucointernational.com

Ossur Elation Flex-Foot Offers Quick-Change Heel Height

Ossur introduces the new Elation" Flex-Foot. With the Elation, heel height can be changed quickly and easily at the touch of a button from 0-2" (5cm) and everywhere in between.

Elation features a foot blade made from 100 percent carbon fiber. Its precision-engineered contour makes it flexible as well as energy-efficient, ensuring a smooth rollover. The foot adjusts automatically to the load applied. The greater the load, the more the foot blade compresses against the rocker plate. This shortens the foot lever arm proportionally, providing the appropriate stiffness.

A narrow, anatomically correct foot cover with a sandal toe contour is bonded to the foot, making it suitable for dress shoes, sandals, cowboy boots, and other footwear types. Elation is easy to cosmetically finish, and the foot is ideal for amputees of low and moderate impact levels who weigh up to 220 lbs (100kg).

For more information, contact:

Ossur
Customer Service
800.233.6263 " 949.632.3883
www.ossur.com

Orthofeet Debuts Stylish Stretchable Shoes

Orthofeet introduces stylish stretchable shoes designed for patients who need extra protection, but do not want to compromise on styling.

The shoes' unique design combines suede leather and spandex, which is both elastic and breathable. The shoes stretch to conform to the contours of the foot, accommodating deformities, such as bunions and hammer toes, and eliminating pressure on diabetic feet with lesions, poor circulation, and edema.

Additional comfort features include an anatomical last, featuring added depth and width across the midfoot and forefoot; ergonomic outsole construction, designed to reduce dorsiflexion stresses at the forefoot and facilitate ambulation; seamless lining; and a moldable, high-quality diabetic orthotic (Medicare approved for code A5509). Shoe cost is $39 a pair; orthotic cost is $9 a pair.

For more information, contact: 

Orthofeet Inc.
800.524.2845
www.orthofeet.com

Hosmer Introduces Cosmetically Appealing CAPP TD

Hosmer Dorrance Corporation has released its latest pediatric terminal device, the CAPP Hand. Using the same internal spring-loaded voluntary-opening mechanism, popular in the original CAPP Terminal Device developed by the Child Amputee Prosthetic Program in southern California, Hosmer has added an integrated urethane body.

This pliable, yet tough exterior preserves function and durability, while adding a much more cosmetic appearance. The elimination of a glove and the use of a low-friction nylon cord ensures smooth and easy use.

Available in three different shades and three different springs to adjust grip force, the CAPP Hand has a replaceable thumb section for wear and can be customized for the individual patient. Try it on your next pediatric patient that requires low-cost, cosmesis, and rugged function in one package.

For more information, contact:

Hosmer, A Fillauer Company
800.827.0070
customerservice@hosmer.com
www.hosmer.com

Fillauer Announces Centri Thermoforming Liners

After becoming part of the Fillauer family, Centri of Sweden announces the expansion of the Quality Liners product line. Recognizing that patients have their own unique limb shape, Centri has specifically designed a liner for thermoforming to the individual's shape. Other liners claim this benefit, but their reinforcing matrix and fabric covers prevent the liner from truly forming to the limb geometry. The Centri liner is simply applied to the positive mold and placed in the oven at 180º and left to form for 15-45 minutes. After cooling, the liner takes on the patient's specific shape.

The Centri Quality Liner is available in a locking or cushion version, 3mm uniform or 6mm tapered thickness, beige or transparent coloring. Each liner has a compatible liner dummy, which may be used as a spacer when making the interface to prevent the liner from being damaged during fabrication.

The Centri Thermoforming Liners are available at Fillauer, Inc., Hosmer Dorrance, and Centri of Sweden.

For more information, contact:

Fran Varner-Jenkins
Fillauer Inc.®
2710 Amnicola Highway
Chattanooga, TN 37421
423.624.0946 " fax: 423.629.7936
info@fillauer.com " www.fillauer.com

Seattle Systems Unveils New CRUISER™ Knee Brace

Seattle Systems unveiled its new lightweight knee brace designed to treat osteoarthritis at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) February 5-9 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Seattle Systems Cruiser" Brace provides corrective force, and thus pain relief, when weight-bearing, but relaxes when the patient flexes the knee, thus providing even more comfort. Made with a strong fiberglass composite shell, the Seattle Systems Cruiser Brace comes cushioned by the high-quality Seattle Systems standard liner. The innovative hinge design provides 20 degrees of valgus/varus alignment adjustability (10 degrees in either direction). Custom models are thermoformed to the patient's leg, using the latest CAD/CAM technology and are available in 15 vibrant colors. Off-the-shelf models come in an attractive pewter metallic color.

For more information, contact:

Seattle Systems
800.248.6463
customerservice@seattle-systems.com
www.seattle-systems.com

Seattle Systems Releases Cadence HP Foot

Seattle Systems Inc. has released another innovative prosthetic foot: the Cadence HP". Designed for every activity level and lifestyle, the Cadence HP has a patented C-shape construction that makes it the only foot on the market without the undesirable "flat spot." Functioning more like a biological foot, the Cadence HP offers amputees a smooth stroll from heel to toe and is ideal for hiking and walking on uneven terrain.

Unlike competitor designs, the Cadence HP does not have an awkward upward propulsion. The design also avoids that pesky "slap" feature, in which the toe comes down too quickly after the amputee steps on the heel.

Knit-Rite Introduces New X-Wool Prosthetic Sock

Knit-Rite announces its new X-Wool Prosthetic Sock with X-STATIC, the silver fiber. The X-Wool Sock features a high-performance fiber system made with pure silver. Silver is naturally antimicrobial, enabling X-STATIC to safely inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Silver also has the best possible thermodynamic properties, so your patient stays cooler in summer and warmer in winter. X-STATIC on the inside of the sock accelerates the movement of moisture away from the body through evaporation.

The absorbent virgin wool is thick and cushioning. Lycra allows the sock to contour without stretching out and also accommodates flexion. These new socks are fleeced to add softness, resist shrinkage, and are easily cared for. Thickness color coding is: 3-ply yellow, 5-ply green, 6-ply gray.

For more information, contact:

Knit-Rite
800.821.3094
www.knitrite.com