Volume changes occurring in postoperative below-knee residual limbs

Comparative maturation rates of 36 below-knee postoperative, healed amputation residual limbs were observed. Measured were the limb volumes and circumferences. Three methods of residual limb stabilization were employed: 1) elastic wrap; 2) plaster cast and pylon; and, 3) plastic laminate socket and pylon. The limbs receiving the plastic laminate showed the most rapid stabilization, while the elastic wrap did not stabilize. Considerable variance existed in relations between variables. Correlation between limb circumference and volume was poor. However, in general, the rates of change, i.e., the relations between volume and time, and circumference and time, were statistically significant (p less than .05).