Research & Presentations
Clinical Effectiveness of a Novel Hydrostatic Casting Method for Transfemoral Amputees: Results From the First 64 Patients By Andrea G. Cutti, PhD; Giovanni Osti; Gian Luca Migliore; Dimitri Cardin; Fabio Venturoli; and Gennaro Verni
Introduction The socket is the most important part of a prosthesis.1,2 If the fitting is poor,3 the patient will experience skin breakdown as well as decreased mobility and independence, and will report dissatisfaction and lower perceived quality of life. The negative effects will extend to the service provider in terms of decreased efficiency, chance of reimbursement, and reputation. In particular, the fitting of aboveknee amputees is challenging,4 requiring Figure 1
The first version (2017) of the Romedis Symphonie Aqua System TF. A Venturi pump controls the intake and outtake of water, thanks to the compressed air supply.
22 O&P News | September/October 2018
extensive clinical experience; multiple casts may be needed before a successful fit is acquired. Typically, rectifications are complex, and outcomes depend on the practitioner’s skill.5 To address these issues, the idea of casting based on a physical law applied through a dedicated (hands-off ) system is appealing. Examples of such systems based on Pascal’s principle have been reported in the literature for more than 30 years, referred to as “hydrostatic casting.”6 Their aim is to obtain an
