Virtual Didactic - Immediate Fit, Adjustable, Lower Limb Prosthetics: Technology & Scientific Rationale presented by Timothy Dillingham, MD-Virtual Didactic- Immediate Fit, Adjustable, Lower Limb Prosthetics: Technology & Scientific Rationale Led byTimothy Dillingham, MD

Virtual Didactic- Immediate Fit, Adjustable, Lower Limb Prosthetics: Technology & Scientific Rationale Led byTimothy Dillingham, MD

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Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video features Dr. Tim Dillingham, Chair of PM&R at the University of Pennsylvania, discussing adjustable lower limb prosthetics. He starts by thanking the AAP for the invitation to speak and expresses admiration for colleagues in New York and New Jersey dealing with the COVID surge. Dr. Dillingham explains that adjustable prosthetics are a fundamental change from the traditional socket design, which often requires multiple adjustments and can be uncomfortable. He highlights the need for improved prosthetic fabrication due to a rising incidence of limb loss and a dearth of prosthetic services to meet the increasing demand. Dr. Dillingham describes the drawbacks of current socket designs, such as cost, discomfort, and variable quality. He introduces the iFit system, an adjustable prosthesis that aims to improve socket comfort, alignment, and fit. He discusses the design process, the materials used, and the benefits of the iFit system for patients with fluctuating limb volumes, those in the early stages after amputation, and those with challenging limbs. Dr. Dillingham presents the results of pilot trials for transfemoral and transtibial amputees, showing that the iFit system is safe, improves comfort and function, and provides better temperature control. He emphasizes the potential international impact of the iFit system in resource-challenged locations, including Haiti and Jamaica. Dr. Dillingham concludes by discussing the low-cost and telemedicine applications of the iFit system, its alignment with recently published VA and DoD guidelines, and the potential cost savings for healthcare systems.

Keywords

adjustable lower limb prosthetics

traditional socket design

improved prosthetic fabrication

rising incidence of limb loss

prosthetic services

iFit system

socket comfort

alignment and fit

pilot trials for amputees