I have a 4 y/o patient (3’1″ – 25#) who was born as a conjoined twin and during the operation to separate her from her twin, her left leg became necrotic leading to a very short (2.0″) transfemoral amputation. Her caretaker is interested in pursuing a prosthesis as she is utilizing a walker to get around or hopping. However, her physician has suggested waiting a few years and then pursuing multiple leg lengthening procedures. She tried a prosthesis over 1.5 years ago; however, difficulties were had with maintaining suspension due to the short residual limb and her inability to follow directions (along with her desire to continuously pull the prosthesis off). She has not been wearing a prosthesis for the last year.
Please help answer the following questions:
1. What are the pros and cons between waiting for the leg lengthening procedure(s) vs. attempting a prosthesis now?
2. If we proceed with a prosthesis, what have you utilized successfully for suspension of an extremely short TF residual limb on a pediatric patient? (photos greatly appreciated)
Thanks,
DeAnna Chapman, CPO
DeAnna Chapman CPO, LPO, FAAOP
Gainesville Prosthetics
3870 NW 83rd Street
Gainesville, FL, 32606
Office: 352.331.4221
Fax: 352.332.8074
Email: [email protected]
[Gainesville Prosthetics]
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