Friday, March 29, 2024

cosmetic only AK

Joan Cestaro, C.P.

Hello all!

I read some posts about a month ago concerning the fabrication of a cosmetic

(non functioning) AK made with PVC piping. I have never made such a

prosthesis, but now find myself in this position. I have always made a

cosmetic prosthesis using conventional components. I would like to try this

new lightweight technique and hope that some of you may be able to offer

suggestions and advice for fabrication. I plan to use a flexible socket

that extends only ½ way up the residuum for comfort. She is rather long. I

also like the lightweight Bock IG9 Sach. Other than that, I’m open for

suggestions and really have no ideas how to attach the PVC piping.

My other concerns, beyond fabrication, are how to bill Medicare for this?

Do you bill the standard AK code with no additions? I was considering the

PVC “elbow joint” as discussed in a previous post. If I don’t use a S/A

knee, this code is not correct. How do you get around this? I am unaware

of a “cosmetic only” code.

What are the liability issues with such a prosthesis? What if the patient

attempts to stand and falls? Is having the patient sign a form stating she

cannot functionally use this prosthesis protection enough? What have other

offices done in this case? This is the advantage of the PVC elbow- no

physical way to stand with this component!

Suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance,

Joan K. Cestaro, C.P.

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