Above Knee ( Trans-Femoral ) Temporary Prosthesis Photo A. As soon as a patient has sufficently healed, the first prosthesis fitted, is a preparatory or temporary prosthesis. The temporary prosthesis is fabricated in a simple yet fully functional design. The above knee Temporary prosthesis consist of a polypropylene split socket, manual locking or stance controled knee, pylon, and a sach or dynamic response foot. Photo A. shows a typical A/K temporary set-up. Suspension for the A/K temporary may vary from a pelvic joint, band and belt, or a silesian belt. The temporary prosthesis has two primary functions. The first is to allow the patient to begin ambulating (walking) again. The second is to help control edma (swelling) and to start the maturing process of the residual limb. As a patient's limb starts the maturing process, the split socket design allows the patient to self- adjust the fit of the prosthesis. Photo B. Photo B. shows the finished above knee temporary prosthesis ready for delivery to the patient. Included with the prosthesis are various size prosthetic socks. One ply, three ply, and five ply socks are supplied to the patient to allow even further adjustment to the fit of the prosthesis. To learn more about prosthetic socks, click on: for more detailed information. After receiving the temporary prosthesis patients should continue to wrap or wear their shrinker sock when not wearing their prosthesis. This will prevent swelling and allow the patient easier donning of the prosthesis. Continue to: The Definitive Prosthesis Return to: | Prosthetics |