AMPUTEE'S INFORMATION
What happens after the amputation?
A prosthesis is an artificial replacement for a missing limb or part of a limb. Although a prosthesis is never as natural as your own limb, it can help you to do many things quite effectively if you are willing to combine your energy and willpower into learning how to use it. The most important aspect of success is working with your prosthetist and therapist to address all of your concerns, and then to work with them on the processes of design, fitting and training, which are required to be a successful user
How long should I wait after my amputation before I can see the Prosthetist at the Kshemaa Clinic?
First the residual limb wound must heal properly. The actual rehabilitation phase starts after a few weeks when this healing process is finished. As a rule, it lasts up to half a year. Your treatment team will decide when you can start with intensive rehabilitation based on how your recovery progresses.
During the rehabilitation phase you are specifically prepared for wearing a prosthesis. The goal is to provide you with the highest possible degree of mobility and independence so that you can live your life as normally as possible in the future. However, your active participation is the decisive factor for a successful rehabilitation. Your motivation and a high degree of self-confidence can also make an important contribution.
During rehabilitation you will learn how to care properly for your residual limb, the scar, and your sound leg and what you should pay attention to.
Before you can wear a prosthesis, your residual limb must be healed and have attained the proper shape. This means that all fluids which accumulated through the operation have been removed through compression therapy and that the residual limb oedema has subsided.
Once your residual limb has been formed properly and can bear weight, you may be fitted with an early or interim prosthesis. Then you will practice using your prosthetic leg: first how to put the prosthesis on and take it off, followed later by gait training. Have your prosthetist show you how to care properly for your prosthesis.
Can I bring someone with me to my prosthetic appointment?
We encourage you to bring your family to an appointment. It is important for all family members to be involved in the fitting process, and to have an opportunity to ask questions. If your child is missing a limb, we also feel it is important for siblings to take part in certain appointments.
What will happen at my first appointment?
During the first initial appointment at the Kshemaa Clinic, you will be seen by the Clinical Team who will assess you for the best prosthesis suited to your lifestyle and level of fitness. We will discuss the best type of socket and if you are a below knee amputee, the best type of prosthetic foot suited to your activity levels.
If you are an above knee amputee, we will also discuss the best type of prosthetic knee suited to your activity level. We will then put together a quotation for you based on your needs and budget. If you decide to proceed with treatment, then we will take a cast of your residual limb, and our highly skilled technicians will manufacture a test socket from this cast.
You will then attend for a further appointment for the test socket fitting, then we will proceed to manufacture the prosthesis.
Can you tell me more the fitting process for a prosthesis?
It can take several fittings to produce a well-fitting, well-functioning artificial limb. The Prosthetist at the Kshemaa Clinic will normally focus on the fit of the socket first.
A clear plastic test socket may be fitted so that the Prosthetist can actually see where the socket fits well and where modifications are needed. Your Prosthetist will ask for your feedback regarding comfort and fit.
What does the prosthesis look like? How will it stay on?
Depending on the level of your amputation, physical ability and functional needs, each prosthesis will be somewhat different. If you desire a “cosmetic look,” prosthetic supplements are available.
But, for most standard prostheses, they are comprised of conventional component parts attached to a socket that fits over your residual limb.
How does a prosthesis work? Will I be able to do all the things I did before I lost my limb?
The majority of people who lose a limb can get back to a normal mode of functioning within a few to several months, depending on the location of the amputation as well as physical ability. How well they function depends primarily on their goals along with timely, comfortable prosthetic fitting, good follow-up care, and a “can do” attitude from themselves as well as their medical team.
When will I be ready for my prosthesis?
Generally, you should be ready for prosthetic measurements and fitting a few weeks after surgery, when the wound is healed and the tissue swelling is decreased. Then you will be ready for prosthetic measurements and fitting.
This process can be easily attained with exercise and rehabilitation. During this stage, your team also will be concerned with maintaining proper shape of the residual limb, as well as increasing overall strength and function.
Fitting is usually stress-free and involves several steps to create a unique prosthesis for you.
What if my prosthesis doesn't fit correctly?
Follow-up is as important as the initial fitting. You may need to make several visits for adjustments with the prosthetist as well as training with a therapist. They can help you ease pressure areas, adjust alignment, work out any problems, and regain the skills you need to adapt to life after limb loss.
Tell your Prosthetist if the manufactured limb is uncomfortable, too loose or too tight. Ask questions about things you need or want to do. Communicate honestly about your needs.
The more you communicate with your Prosthetist and therapist, the better you will be able to succeed with a prosthesis.
How long will my prosthesis last?
Depending on your age, activity level and growth, the prosthesis can last anywhere from several months to several years.
In the early stages after limb loss, many changes occur in the residual limb that can lead to shrinking of the limb. This may require socket changes, the addition of liners, or even a different device. Later on, increased activity level and desire for additional function can necessitate a change in the prosthesis or its parts.
Once you are comfortably adjusted and functioning at the desired level of activity, the prosthesis needs only minor repairs or maintenance and can last for an average of Eight years.
Is it learning to use a prosthesis difficult?
Learning to use a prosthesis is a tough job. It takes time, great effort, strength, patience and perseverance. You will do best to work with a physiotherapist while learning how to handle the new device. Much like learning how to operate a car, you will need guidance on how to:
·Take care of the prosthesis.
·Put on (don) and take off (doff) the prosthesis.
·Walk on different types of surfaces including stairs and uneven surfaces.
·Handle emergencies safely, including falling down and getting back up again.
·Perform daily activities at home, at work and even in the car.
·Investigate new things you may be uncertain of, including sports and recreational activities.
