The Clinical Application of an Upper Limb Custom Silicone Interface: Observations of a Case Study
Robert J. Dodson, CPO, LPO, Bridget Jowid, OTR
ABSTRACT:
Silicone interfaces have played an important role in the
prosthetics field over the last three decades. From suspension techniques to
the enhancement of comfort and protection of atypical or diseased residual
limbs, silicone provides unique and valuable benefits that have helped
countless individuals regain functionality. Beyond the world of prosthetics,
silicone has become a mainstay in wound management, scar maturation, and in the
overall promotion of healing during occupational and physical therapy.
Practitioners now recognize that silicone interfaces can protect fragile skin
in extreme cases such as severe burns and extensive skin grafts. Clinically, as
we incorporate custom silicone into the mainstream design of the “standard” upper-limb
prosthesis, we are beginning to see unexpected and exciting benefits. Although
not formally studied, clinical observation has shown that people wearing an
upper-limb prosthesis that incorporates a custom silicone interface gain
greater range of motion at the elbow and wrist, report increased comfort and
better tolerances of aggressive socket design, and experience greater
protection of fragile skin. A recent case study within our clinical setting
highlights the positive effects of a custom silicone interface on a chronic
wound and provides real observation of the benefits that the addition of this
material to the prosthetic design can have on this patient population. (J
Prosthet Orthot. 2009;21:120–124.)
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