An original supporting frame for early mobilization after lower-limb amputation for musculoskeletal tumor

Background: To facilitate early walking in persons with lower-limb amputations for musculoskeletal tumors, we developed an original supporting frame to use with a commercial pneumatic bag. Technique: The frame has adjustable modular components for persons with transfemoral and transtibial amputations. We applied it from the fourth day after amputation within the standard rehabilitation program and pain treatment. We assessed the feasibility of using this frame and its safety in 15 oncological participants with lower-limb amputations. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed at the end of the rehabilitation program and at a mean (SD) of 90 (54) days after amputation. Results: All the patients could safely use this frame. No wound problems were encountered, no worsening of pain was registered, and clinical and functional evaluation showed a good functional performance. Conclusion: The use of the original device, conceived for the optimal adjustability with respect to the individual patient sizes and tested in a group of oncological participants with lower-limb amputations, was demonstrated to be feasible and safe (J Prosthet Orthot. 2017;29:35-38).