Knee disarticulation prosthesis
This prosthesis replaces the lower leg, including the knee joint after a knee disarticulation. Due to the comparatively long stump, the leverage ratios are excellent.
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We train you in the daily use of your knee prosthesis.
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Very good leverage ratios
Knee disarticulation prosthesis
The lower leg is completely removed during knee disarticulation (KD). The special feature of this amputation method is that no bones are cut through – only the soft tissues in the knee joint (between the thigh and lower leg bones). This results in the great advantage that the end of the stump can be end-loaded. The user can transfer the body load over the stump end as well as over the entire surface of the thigh.
KD prostheses replace the lower leg including the knee joint. Due to the comparatively long stump, the lever ratios are excellent when wearing the prosthesis. Because the thigh muscles are largely preserved after knee disarticulation, the prosthesis user has a lot of strength in his stump and can therefore control the prosthesis very well. In turn, a symmetrical, unobtrusive gait pattern is essential to protect the healthy side from muscular tension and premature wear.
Choosing the right shaft system
The prosthesis shaft into which the thigh is embedded represents the connection between the prosthesis and the human body. The design of the shaft has a significant influence on the comfort and operability of the prosthesis. We basically offer two concepts to choose from:
PBSS shaft
We are constantly working on the developing materials and production techniques that increase shaft comfort. With the PBSS shaft, we have succeeded in implementing a shaft concept that impresses across the board:
- pain reduction
- individual shaft design through add-ons
- improved adhesion
- appealing shaft design
- integration of doctors, therapists and orthopedic technicians
Condylar embedding shaft system
Condyles are bony parts of the knee joint at the lower end of the femur, which are responsible for a combined rolling and sliding movement on the joint surface of the tibial plateau.
To put on the KD prosthesis, the stump is first wrapped with a skin protection sock and slightly pre-compressed. The soft tissues are thus fixed and prepared for the prosthesis. A slit at the end of the soft-wall inner shaft pulls the stump into the inner shaft using a Perlon tube. This system shows its advantages, especially in the case of first aid after amputation.
Interim prosthesis for lower limb amputees
Frequently asked questions
What is an interim prosthesis?
An interim prosthesis is a temporary prosthesis. In the first few months after a leg amputation, the conditions of the residual limb can still change considerably. The interim prosthesis, also called provisional prosthesis, is used to bridge this phase.
What is an interim prosthesis needed for?
The socket of the interim prosthesis (i.e. the connecting piece between the person and the technology) is not initially made of carbon so that it can be easily adapted to the ever-changing shape of the leg stump during the "trial period". In the case of freshly amputated patients, the circumference of the leg stump is reduced during the first few months. This is due to the healing process of the wound and the reduction of the swelling. In addition, the user can test different fitting parts (e.g. knee joints or different foot parts) during the 6-month interim phase, which are then installed in the final prosthesis. The fit of the prosthesis socket is repeatedly improved by our orthopedic technicians during the interim phase so that as few fitting problems as possible occur with the definitive prosthesis with carbon socket.
How long does it take to walk with a prosthetic leg?
How quickly you learn to walk with a prosthesis depends on many different factors. These include, for example
- the wound healing on the residual limb,
- the accuracy of fit of the prosthesis,
- one's own resilience,
- the rehabilitation,
- the muscle building
- etc.
Some users can walk from A to B relatively safely within a few days of receiving their interim prosthesis, while for others this process takes several weeks.
Fitting parts and cosmetics
Other components of a KD prosthesis
Prosthesis fitting parts
Two fitting parts are mounted on the shaft:
Knee joint: Ottobock E-Legs (e.g. C-Leg, Genium, Kenevo) are recommended for safe, dynamic walking. Polycentric (multi-axis) joints are recommended for optimal cosmetic appearance, due to the reduced installation height.
Foot: Various carbon spring foot systems are used, depending on the respective mobility.
Cosmetics
Cosmetically, there are three options:
- A classic PUR one-piece foam cosmetic that stretches over the knee, is soft and worn with cosmetic socks. This cosmetic is suitable for users who are defensive about the topic of prosthetics and want a good result when sitting.
- A split variant that keeps the joints free and therefore has little influence on the function of the prosthesis. This cosmetic is popular with users who are actively engaged with the prosthesis.
- Protectors (covers) are ideal for customizing shape and volume compensation.
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