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Fitting very short finger stumps with silicone prosthesis: a nonsurgical method
Michael E L Leow1, Alphonsus K S Chong, Yeong-Pin Peng
1Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore. dosv5@nus.edu.sg
Prosthetics and Orthotics International
|January 9, 2013
Summary
A new technique using Micropore tape and a polyvinyl chloride tube effectively fits short finger prostheses. This method ensures a secure prosthetic fit for individuals with short finger stumps, preventing slippage.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Fitting silicone prostheses on short finger stumps presents challenges due to poor contact caused by stump length and tapering.
- Suboptimal stump-prosthesis interface can lead to discomfort and prosthetic instability.
Observation:
- A novel technique involves securing a trimmed polyvinyl chloride tube to the distal stump tip with Micropore tape.
- The silicone prosthesis is then worn over this custom-fitted tube extension.
- This method was evaluated in 10 patients with short finger stumps.
Findings:
- All 10 patients achieved a highly secure prosthetic fit using the Micropore-polyvinyl chloride tube technique.
- No instances of prosthesis slippage were reported during the follow-up period, extending up to 30 months.
- The technique demonstrated superior prosthetic fit compared to methods without the tube or using skin adhesive alone.
Implications:
- The Micropore-polyvinyl chloride tube technique offers an effective solution for improving prosthetic fit in short finger stumps.
- This method has the potential to enhance patient satisfaction and functional outcomes in prosthetic use.
- Further research could explore long-term durability and patient-reported outcomes with this technique.
