Prosthetics & Orthotics: NEET PG Essentials
1. Key Definitions
- Prosthesis: Artificial replacement for a missing body part (e.g., transtibial prosthesis).
- Orthosis: An external device applied to an existing body part to support, align, prevent, or correct deformities (e.g., AFO).
- Splint: A temporary device used for immobilization or protection (e.g., post-fracture or post-surgical).
2. High-Yield Orthotic Devices
| Device | Primary Indication/Use |
|---|---|
| AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) | Commonly used for drop foot (e.g., common peroneal nerve palsy or hemiplegia). |
| HKAFO | Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis; used for paraplegia (e.g., spinal cord injury). |
| TLSO | Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral Orthosis; gold standard for scoliosis (Boston brace). |
3. Exam Pearls & Clinical Application
- Casting/Splinting: The “Position of Function” for hand splinting (wrist in 20-30° extension, MCP in 70-90° flexion, PIP/DIP in full extension).
- Denis Browne Splint: Essential for the maintenance phase of clubfoot (CTEV) management after Ponseti casting.
- Milwaukee Brace: Historically used for scoliosis, but now replaced by more comfortable options like the Boston (TLSO) brace.
- Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB) Socket: The standard socket design for a transtibial (below-knee) amputation prosthesis.
4. Further Study
For more diagrams on biomechanical alignment and question banks covering assistive devices, please visit mymedschool.org.