Prosthetic and orthotic devices

This chapter provides an overview of amputation surgery and the history of prosthetic and orthotic design to set the stage for current and future technology. Amputation causes and incidence rates will be summarized. Lower and upper limb prostheses, both preparatory and definitive, will be presented, as well as common options regarding prosthetic socket, foot, and knee components. The corresponding biomechanical loading in terms of both three-point and four-point designs will be described. Both static and dynamic orthotic designs will be presented, as well as various joint components and control options. A chronic ulcer may result in infection, ultimately requiring lower limb amputation, most commonly at the trans-tibial level. The second most common level of amputation is above-the-knee. Proximal amputation levels pose increasing functional challenges as the incorporation of additional prosthetic componentry, in combination with the more substantial loss of body segments, requires increased physical stamina to ambulate.