Clinical Application & Fitting Flashcards

During transtibial prosthetic fitting, a patient reports pistoning of the socket during ambulation. Which adjustment is most appropriate?

Answer: Increase suspension by adding a pin lock or suction

Pistoning indicates inadequate suspension, which is corrected by upgrading or adding a pin lock, suction sleeve, or elevated vacuum system.

A patient with a transfemoral amputation experiences medial distal thigh pain during the stance phase. The most likely cause is:

Answer: Insufficient adduction of the socket

Insufficient adduction leaves the femur in abduction, causing the distal medial femur to bear excess pressure against the socket wall.

When fitting a PTB (patellar tendon bearing) socket, which anatomical landmark is considered the primary load-bearing area?

Answer: Patellar tendon

The patellar tendon is the primary load-bearing area in a PTB socket due to its pressure tolerance and accessibility.

A child with a below-knee limb deficiency is fitted with a prosthesis. The parent asks about growth management. The BEST practice is:

Answer: Modify the socket with growth pads and schedule regular check-ups

Children require regular monitoring with modular socket adjustments such as growth pads to accommodate growth without frequent full replacements.

Which of the following best describes the function of a SACH (Solid Ankle Cushion Heel) foot?

Answer: Simulates ankle motion through heel wedge compression

The SACH foot mimics ankle plantarflexion at heel strike through compression of a cushioned heel wedge, with no true articulation.

For a patient with a Syme's amputation, the most important socket design consideration is:

Answer: Accommodating the bulbous distal end while allowing donning

The Syme's residual limb has a bulbous distal end requiring a socket with a removable panel or flexible inner socket to allow the bulge through for donning.

A transfemoral patient ambulates with a lateral trunk lean toward the prosthetic side during stance. Which prosthetic cause should be investigated first?

Answer: Insufficient socket adduction

Insufficient socket adduction shifts the patient's center of mass laterally, causing the patient to lean over the prosthesis to maintain balance.