Prosthetic rehabilitation of multiple-digit amputa tions using silicone material in sub-Saharan African country Ghana

Pan Afr Med J. 2020 Aug 27:36:357. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2020.36.357.25361. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Digit loss might be due to traumatic injuries, congenital malformations and various diseases. Rehabilitation of finger amputations requires aesthetics and functional aspects. Due to limited resources in low income countries, some local professionals find it difficult to meet the patient´s needs. One of the methods of gaining total suspension is to don the residual finger with aesthetic silicone prosthesis. A 25-year-old female presented with multiple-digit amputations of both of her hands due to autoimmune disease. At first stage of the treatment, silicone prostheses of the loss fingers of both hands were planned. The impressions of the remaining fingers were taken to manufacture the silicone prostheses. The manufactured prostheses with total suspension improved patient´s social life. The patient´s residual fingers were fitted with the prostheses after which she was satisfied with the aesthetic aspects.

Keywords: Africa; Ghana; amputations; hand; prosthesis; silicone.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amputation, Surgical / rehabilitation*
  • Amputees / psychology
  • Amputees / rehabilitation
  • Artificial Limbs
  • Autoimmune Diseases / complications
  • Female
  • Fingers*
  • Ghana
  • Humans
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Silicones*

Substances

  • Silicones