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The answer is, in a couple of hours!

Central Brace & Limb Co. uses a system by Ossur called a modular socket system. This system is for below knee amputees. The process can be done at any of our locations or if the need arises, it can be done at hospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers or even a patient’s home.

The process begins when the patient is first fitted with a silicone or gel liner that is set for a shuttle lock suspension. Once that is fitted, the prosthetist starts the process of laminating a socket directly to the patient. The prosthetist then applies, a fiberglass or carbon (depending on the patient’s needs) pre-assembled soft socket.

After the soft socket has been applied, the socket is then completed and readied for the lamination. The prosthetist then injects the socket material with a resin, which will make the socket hard and ready for the patient to wear. It takes about 15 minutes for the resin to set up. Once it’s hard, the prosthetist removes the socket and then trims it out so the patient will have full range of motion in their knee. Once the socket is trimmed, the final components are added, such as the shuttle lock, foot, and any hardware that is needed. The prosthesis is then refitted and aligned for the patient to allow them to walk up to their capability.

From start to finish, the process can take 2 to 3 hours with an end result of the patient walking out of the office with the prosthesis. As with most prostheses, the patient’s condition and weight can determine if he or she is right for this prosthesis. Most patients will fall within the guidelines and will be able to get this prosthesis.

If you’re a patient, physician, physical therapist, please contact Central Brace & Limb Co., 1-800-277-LIMB, for details about the modular socket system and how you can walk out of our office with your very own prosthesis in 3 hours!