Children's Orthotics and Prosthetics

University Orthopaedics' specialized orthotics and prosthetics division, located at University Rehabilitation Center, evaluates, fabricates and custom fits artificial limbs and orthopaedic braces for children according to the doctor’s prescription. Comprehensive services include a state-of-the-art fabrication center featuring computer-aided design and manufacturing equipment and a skilled staff with more than 20 years’ experience dedicated to proper fit, function and appearance of each prosthesis and orthotics.

The Orthotics and Prosthetics department offers outpatient as well as in-hospital consultation and fitting. A diagnostic process has been developed using the latest computer-assisted design and manufacturing technology to create a high degree of comfort, function and cosmetic appearance.

Orthotics

University Orthopaedics’ comprehensive orthotic services use biomechanical principles to minimize bracing and maximize comfort and function. The staff is well known for its experience with fitting complex spinal support devices as well as sophisticated lower limb braces. They also are skilled with sophisticated tools, including laser alignment, to evaluate and fine-tune the alignment of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

Prosthetics

The ideal time to fit a child’s prosthesis is at the age of 6 to 7 months or whenever the infant is able to sit independently. It is important to discuss prosthetic options as early as possible to map out a plan that will enhance the child’s life, and the University Orthopaedics' prosthetics division is well versed in the meeting the special needs of our young patients and families.

Staff members specialize in lightweight, high-performance upper and lower extremity prostheses, including arms, legs and ears. Using a team approach, specialists properly fit infants, children and teens by using the latest generation of computer-imaging and fabrication technology. Our staff members are some of the most experienced in the country in using computer-aided design and manufacturing technology, a process that allows us to craft manufacture prostheses in a matter of hours instead of weeks and months.

• Bionics and microprocessor technology
  The program has extensive experience with microprocessor-controlled prostheses for upper and lower limb prostheses for children. We have a long history of fitting microprocessor-controlled knees, elevated vacuum suspension systems and myoelectrically (electrical signals within the body) controlled elbows, wrists and hands.
• Neuroprosthetic services
  Our certified clinical specialists provide the latest FDA-approved neuroprosthetic (electrical stimulation) devices. It is the only program in the state to provide neuroprosthetic therapy, providing a continuum of care from the acute hospital to outpatient therapy, thanks to a team collaboration of doctors, nurses, therapists and orthotists.
• Upper extremities
  The University Orthopaedics prosthetics staff has extensive experience in fitting patients with complex upper extremity prostheses. We have the resources and the inventory to test components on each patient to determine which system is best suited functionally for the growing child.