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CAD CAM trans-tibial temporary prosthesis: analysis and comparison with an established technique
1West Park Prosthetics/Orthotics, Toronto, Canada.
Prosthetics and Orthotics International
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Computer-Aided Design Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD CAM) for temporary trans-tibial prostheses resulted in longer rehabilitation and more appointments compared to conventional methods. This suggests challenges with CAD CAM socket fit in initial applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Background:
- Temporary trans-tibial prostheses are crucial for early rehabilitation.
- Traditional methods involve fiberglass/pelite liners.
- Evaluating novel technologies like CAD CAM is essential for improving prosthetic care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of CAD CAM in producing temporary trans-tibial prosthesis sockets.
- To compare CAD CAM with conventional techniques regarding rehabilitation time and prosthetic appointments.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study comparing CAD CAM sockets with conventional fiberglass/pelite sockets in 30 patients.
- Data collected included socket attempts, prosthetic appointments, and rehabilitation duration.
- Patients were followed from initial casting to readiness for definitive prosthesis.
Main Results:
- CAD CAM sockets required significantly more prosthetic appointments (5.1 vs 2.9) and longer hospitalization (23.6 vs 10.5 days) (p = 0.01).
- 67% of CAD CAM patients needed socket remakes due to issues with volume or relief/loading areas.
- Conventional sockets demonstrated a more efficient rehabilitation process.
Conclusions:
- Current CAD CAM application for temporary trans-tibial prosthesis sockets led to increased rehabilitation time and appointments.
- Socket fit issues, including volume and relief modifications, were primary drivers of delays with CAD CAM.
- Further refinement of CAD CAM technology and prosthetist training is needed for optimal outcomes.