Above knee prosthetic leg is an artificial limb system applied from below the hip joint to above the knee level. They are used after above knee amputation.
This type of prosthetic leg is designed to improve the quality of life after amputation in cases where the knee joint is lost or its function is restricted and to help the person maintain daily activities. It’s also called transfemoral amputation. There is a procedure that is close to the below knee prosthesis.
A leg prosthesis is customized to fit the wearer’s body and is designed with every contingency taken into account to improve mobility. These assistive products are manufactured using modern materials and state-of-the-art technology and strive to fulfill the functionality of the real leg. They are placed in place of the amputee’s leg and help with various physical activities such as walking, running, and climbing. Also, with the help of modern technology, new developments are being made to improve the balance, movement control, and comfort of such prostheses. There are different types of prostheses.
What are the Types of Above Knee Prosthetic Legs?
Another is the microprocessor-controlled knee model. It is also known as bionic legs. This product has the ability to detect the user’s movements more precisely and optimize the prosthesis’ behavior accordingly. Thanks to the integrated microprocessors, it instantly processes data from sensors and aims to provide the user with better balance, control, and comfort during walking or other activities.
What are the Features of a Prosthetic Leg Above the Knee?
Prosthetic legs above knee that meet different needs also vary in their characteristics. Microprocessor models continuously monitor factors such as stride length, speed, direction and smoothness of movement. By evaluating this data, the bionic prosthetic leg adjusts its behavior to suit the user’s changing needs in real-time. For example, the device’s stride rate may increase during a fast walk, while it may move more steadily during a slow walk. They ensure good balance in complex movements such as climbing stairs and walking on inclined surfaces. Bionic prosthetic leg prices vary according to the product brand.
Hydraulic knee prostheses are another of the most widely used types of good prostheses. They work with oil pressure. It consists of 4 parts: Socket, knee, pylon, and foot prosthetics. There are different models for each age group, including those with the ability to enter the water. It is also possible to perform actions such as climbing stairs and cycling. Ottobock and Össür brands are known as the most preferred prostheses in this type. There are also different above knee prosthetic socket types.
Who Can Use an Above Knee Prosthesis?
The use of a above knee advanced prosthetic leg is usually decided during the post-amputation evaluation. In this process, the stump (the remaining part of the limb), the general health status of the patient and different parameters are evaluated. They are often applied in the following cases:
- Amputation,
- Problem with the knee joint,
- Congenital anomalies,
- Post-trauma,
- Chronic diseases.
If the knee joint or lower leg has been lost due to trauma, cancer, infection or congenital anomalies, these people are candidates for an above-knee prosthesis. In some cases, the function of the knee joint can become severely restricted or painful. In such cases, above-knee prostheses may be preferred.
Some congenital conditions may cause this area to be missing or underdeveloped. In such cases, functionality can be achieved by using above-knee prostheses. Another group of people who need this assistive device are those who have suffered serious injuries in the same area as a result of accidents, sports injuries or other traumatic events. In addition, some chronic diseases can also adversely affect bone health or joint function and the result can be amputation.
How is an Above Knee Prosthetic Leg Applied?
The prosthetist then takes measurements appropriate to the level of amputation and body structure of the individual. The design is made based on these measurements. The structure of the product is determined according to the individual’s mobility, balance needs and intended use. After the approval of this stage, the prosthetic leg production phase begins. It is usually produced from light and durable materials. When the construction is completed, the necessary adjustments are made by the specialist to adapt to the body of the person who will use it. Here, the length, angles and other features of the support device are optimized.
Above Knee Prosthetic Leg Prices
After the application phase, the person is given practical information on how to put on and take off the prosthetic leg, how to walk, and how to maintain balance before use. In addition, the points to be considered during the use of the foot prosthesis are also conveyed in the finest detail. After a period of time, the doctor wants to make regular checks and evaluations.
In these controls, the performance and compatibility of the product are observed, and necessary adjustments are made in line with the needs. Prosthetic leg prices may vary from case to case, depending on the preferred brand. For more detailed information about all procedures, you can contact Luxmed Prosthesis, Turkey’s best prosthesis practitioner.
