Why Are Prosthetics So Expensive? Researchers ...

Why Are Prosthetics So Expensive? Researchers...

I had always planned to become a biomedical engineer, driven by my fascination with futuristic limbs. My interest in prosthetics started in my early school years, where I would excitedly present detailed plans for innovative limb replacements to anyone who would listen.

In pursuit of my passion, I even toured Stryker's New Jersey facility at the age of eight to see how prosthetic devices were made. My future seemed bright, and I felt ready to make my dreams a reality.

In college, I worked on projects like restoring proprioceptive feedback for a neural-enabled myoelectric arm, adding touch sensation to arms controlled by nerves. I felt a sense of pride in my accomplishments and in contributing to this groundbreaking field.

However, it all changed when I started interacting with the people I aimed to help. Patients and their families asked me difficult questions about the cost and accessibility of prosthetics. Most prosthetics, unless rudimentary, surpass $60,000 and require expensive yearly replacements, with only limited insurance coverage.

This harsh reality dampened my enthusiasm for biomedical engineering. While my peers pursued advanced degrees and high-profile jobs, I felt uncertain about my path.

During a senior-year conference for clinicians treating patients with limb loss, I became disheartened by the focus on regulations rather than patient needs. The promise of trying out advanced myoelectric arms held my interest, yet I couldn't shake off the feeling that the system was failing those who needed help the most.

Lower Limb Prosthesis

What is Lower Limb Prosthesis?

A lower limb prosthesis is an artificial replacement for parts such as the hip, thigh, knee, ankle, and foot. These prosthetics can serve cosmetic purposes or restore limb functionality.

Common amputations include transfemoral (above the knee) and transtibial (below the knee). Prosthetists customize prosthetics to fit the residual limb based on the individual needs and measurements.

Types of Lower Limb Prosthesis

There are three main types of lower limb prosthetics: ankle and foot systems, prosthetic knee systems, and sport-specific foot and knee systems.

Ankle and Foot Systems

• Hydraulics for dampening impact
• Automatic adjustment to walking speeds
• Active propulsion to reduce energy expenditure
• Endoskeletal torsion units for twisting motions
• Ankle adjustments for different shoe heights

Prosthetic Knee Systems

• Body-powered
• Single or multi-axis joints
• Electronically controlled for stability and reduced effort

Sport-Specific Foot and Knee Systems

• Designed for various recreational activities
• Customized for running, skiing, swimming, and more

Lower limb prosthetics are either exoskeletal or endoskeletal:

Exoskeletal Prosthesis: Made of hard plastic or metal, offering high durability but no adjustability.

Endoskeletal Prosthesis: Less durable but adjustable, with an inner structure covered by soft material and synthetic skin. More common for flexibility purposes.

What Are Lower Limb Prosthetics Made Of?

Key components of lower limb prosthetics include:

• Socket
• Interface (inner lining touching the skin)
• Suspension
• Frame
• Knee Unit
• Foot/Ankle Complex
• Hip Joint

Options available for Lower Limb Prosthesis

For partial-foot amputations, prostheses enable ankle motion and support walking, running, or climbing stairs.

Syme Ankle Disarticulation

This amputation modification improves prosthetic fitting and the ankle's cosmetic appearance.

Below-Knee (Transtibial)

Enhances balance, stability, and movement with various foot/ankle components.

Above-Knee

Involves socket, knee/ankle joints, and foot components for balanced mobility.

Hip Disarticulation

Supports amputees with hip joint amputations or anomalies.

Our Product List

We provide state-of-the-art orthotics and prosthetics customized to individual needs, including:

• Micro Processor Ankle (Freedom International)
• Proflex Foot (Össur)
• Proprio Foot (Össur)
• Triton Smart Ankle (Ottobock)
• Symbionic Leg – Micro Knee and Ankle (Össur)
• Kinterra, Foot and Ankle (Freedom International)

How much is a prosthetic leg?

The cost of a prosthetic leg ranges from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the complexity of the components. Insurance typically covers part of the cost.

What Your Process Will Look Like

A prosthetist will study, design, and fit a prosthetic based on your needs and measurements. The development process can take several weeks, involving multiple fittings and adjustments.

Get a Lower Limb Prosthesis Evaluation Today

At Pongratz, we offer prosthetic services tailored to your needs. We're committed to helping you regain a fully functional life. jig orthopedic. Contact us for assistance today!