Rehabilitation
Mechanical load
Partial loading and placement of the exoprosthesis can be carried out a few days after surgery. It must be done with careful supervision of the rehabilitation team.
This loading stage requires the use of a specialized core fitted to the end of the implant. You start the process with a 5-minute load three times a day, and you're asked to press down to a certain weight. Weight and time will slowly increase over the next few days.
Walking training
Once half the weight can be carried comfortably (with the specialized device) a lightweight limb will be attached and gait training can begin.
As the muscles will start to be used differently and will need time to adapt, we can expect some pain at first.
To ensure proper osseointegration, only partial loading can be done for the first 12 weeks. This involves walking with at least one crutch or cane.
Although the desire to push the limits may arise, we recommend that you gradually get back into gear to avoid accidents.
Post Op Care
Extreme care should be taken at the opening where the external adapter (stoma) comes out. There will be a little drainage from the stoma, the amount varies from patient to patient and some will have no discharge at all.
With normal daily hygienic care, the risk of infection is minimal. Wash once a day, pay attention to the stump and stoma, that's all it takes.
Security system
Excessive rotation movements, pivoting and twisting of the operated limb should be avoided. However, in case of high levels of stress, the safety pin of the external implant will break to prevent bone fractures. The system will hold and the bone will remain undamaged.
Safety pins are easily changed by the prosthetist and we will soon offer the possibility for the patient to change them by himself.