G’day all.
I have a bilateral BK patient (78.y.o.lady) whom I have successfully fitted
with 3-S limbs for some four-five years now. This in itself is not
remarkable, except that “Ivy” has had severe Rheumatoid Arthritis for about
forty years. Typically, she has been treated with cortico-steroid type
medication (Prednisolone) for much of that time, which has played merry
hell with her metabolism and skin condition.
We have had to constantly deal with a succession of volumetric changes in
the residua AND local and general skin conditions including ulcers, rashes
and irritations all of which interfere with her prosthetic fit and
function. The effects of rashes and irritations are minimised by use of the
silicon-skin preps recommended for use with the silicon liners but….
Cortisone, in my experience, can seriously affect an amputees chances
because skin integrity is jeopardised; skin becomes tissue thin and
in-elastic. This, combined with the volumetric changes due to fluid
imbalances is a dangerous scenario. I would appreciate any thoughts on this
and suggestions that could improve “Ivy’s” chances.
Richard Ziegeler P&O
