Abstract
Silicone interfaces have been utilized in the field of prosthetics in a multitude
of applications over the last three
decades. From suspension techniques to the enhancement of comfort and protection of
atypical or diseased residual
limbs, silicone has become an integral part of the prosthetic system. Beyond the field
of prosthetics, the use of silicone
has become a mainstay in wound management, scar maturation, and in the overall promotion
of healing in the world of
occupational and physical therapy. Extreme cases such as severe burns and or extensive
skin grafts have forced many
practitioners to consider utilizing silicone interfaces to protect fragile skin.
Clinically, as we incorporate custom silicone into the mainstream design of the “standard”
upper extremity prosthesis,
we are beginning to see unexpected benefits with the usage of this material on otherwise
healthy skin. All of the
therapeutic benefits of silicone are now being combined with normal prosthetic usage
including limb healing and scar
tissue maturation and management. This presentation will provide a historical look
at the applications of silicone in the
fields of prosthetics and occupational / physical therapy as well as consider unique
applications in upper extremity
prosthetics.
Citation
Proceedings of the MEC’08 conference, UNB; 2008.
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