The SCOPe Experience

Upper Extremities

The loss of any extremity or limb thru amputation or birth anomalies is a life altering event. Absence of all or part of the hand presents a unique set of challenges for any individual; however the use of prosthetic devices can dramatically assist in recovering much of those lost abilities. The loss of an extremity involves more than just the physical loss but also physiological and emotional challenges as well. Although this group of patient represents a fairly small percentage of the amputee population we at SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. are focused on providing the highest level of care available.

Fittings may include the use of prosthetic devices with newer technologies such as multi articulated micro processor controlled hands (I Limb) that operate off signals provided by remaining muscle groups. This control method is known as myoelectric control. The use of more traditional systems that harness motion from remaining joints to control the functions of a prosthetic device are frequently prescribed due to there effectiveness and simplicity. This type of control method is referred to as body powered and involves a strapping system to harness the motion of the remaining extremity to operate the prosthesis.

Your SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. practitioner will take into account all factors that affect your prosthetic care. The successful implementation of any prosthetic care plan is much more than just the application of technology to ones extremity. The patient’s total environment, level of amputation, vocational and recreational goals and family support systems will all be part of the equation.

Restoring body symmetry is of vital importance to some individuals. We have a solution. From the tip of your finger to above the shoulder there is a prosthetic solution available. Due to our reputation within the prosthetic community SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. has access to all the latest technological advancements available including advanced training. Once fit with your prosthesis our care plan does not end. Lifelong biannual follow-up appointments are standard.

Lower Extremities

Above Knee

Prosthetic advances for above knee or Transfemoral amputees are continuing at an exciting pace. Innovative designs in socket configuration, and ever evolving technology make this area of prosthetics exciting. Microprocessor knee systems are becoming the standard of care. We now have externally powered knee systems as well. Foot and ankle technology is also ever changing and benefitting the amputee population.

The continued advancement in Microprocessor knee systems are allowing amputee's greater freedom and mobility then ever before. The C-LEG and the Rheo are examples of this technology. Now the ability to walk safely down stairs and ramps and have the prosthesis assist this has become a reality. Amputees who have converted to this style of knee joint are benefitting from greater mobility than ever before. Coming in summer or fall of 2011 is the Genium Knee by Otto Bock. This knee promises to represent a major step forward in technology for the Microprocessor controlled knee joint. Its features will include different stance flexion resistances for stairs and ramps. It will also recognize when a user is going up stairs and will have a mode to assist the amputee in leg over leg stair climbing.

Below Knee

Below the knee or Transtibial amputations are an area where great advancements in technology have taken place as well. We now have greater options in suspension, shock absorption, rotation and energy return than ever before.

Another area of excitement is the appearance of Micro-Processor technology for the Transtibial amputee. The PROPRIO foot and ankle is an example of this. This foot will automatically adjust itself to the terrain the amputee is walking on. If you are going up or down a ramp PROPRIO will sense this and change the position of the foot to match this change. With the push of a button it will automatically adjust itself to a shoe's heel height. Furthermore during gait the foot senses when the toe pushes off and will lift the toe to prevent it from catching on the ground, just like your missing muscles used to do.

Hip Disarticulation

Any amputation is traumatic to the person losing the body part but one of the most disabling lower extremity amputations is the hip disarticulation or the hemipelvectomy amputation. The most common reasons for either of these amputations are cancer, trauma and aggressive infections. The hip disarticulation involves the removal of the entire lower limb, however the pelvis remains uninvolved. In the Hemipelvectomy amputation, the entire limb is removed in addition to a portion of the pelvis, including the hip socket. Because three joints are removed, the ankle, the knee and the hip, this is the most challenging of prosthetic replacements.

In the past, this prosthesis has had a high rate of rejection due to the increased energy expenditure, limitations in function and the generally increased demand for amputee physically. Because the number of patients being fit with these type prostheses is low, few prosthetists have developed sufficient expertise in the design and fitting of these prostheses. At SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. we have a team of clinical and technical specialists that work hard to ensure that this level of patient has the greatest level of success.

In recent years there have been multiple technological advancements that have benefited this patient population. Foremost has been microprocessor knee systems which assist the hip disarticulation patient by using sensors to understand what the patient is doing and controlling the knee. Resulting in a prosthesis that is safer and easier to use. Most recently, advancements have been made in prosthetic hip designs such as the Helix hip system from Otto Bock. This system uses hydraulics to assist in forward motion and to provide shock absorption.

Of crucial importance is the prosthetic socket. If the socket doesn’t fit correctly all the latest high tech components will not be able to function at the maximum level. The SCOPe Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. team has developed and incorporated many advancements in materials and design allowing for the most comfortable fit ever. Resulting in greater acceptance and more functional outcome for patients desiring to return some level of normalcy to their lives after traveling through this challenging journey.