Case studies examined as part of April 30 Prosthetists and Orthotists Day

An event titled “Prosthetics Orthotics Case Studies and Applications within the Scope of April 30 Prosthetists and Orthotists Day” was organized by the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program of Uskudar University Vocational School of Health Services (SHMYO). Prosthetics Orthotics Technician Güneş Ecenaz Koca attended the event as a speaker. Koca emphasized that providing positive results for the patient is the greatest satisfaction. 

The event took place at Uskudar University Çarşı Campus. 

Prosthetics Orthotics Technician Güneş Ecenaz Koca was a guest at the event titled “Prosthetics Orthotics Case Studies and Applications within the Scope of April 30 Prosthetists and Orthotists Day.” The moderation of the event was carried out by Lecturer Kübra Akkalay, Head of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program at Uskudar University Vocational School of Health Services (SHMYO). 

Güneş Ecenaz Koca: “Contracture refers to restricted mobility in a joint.”

Prosthetics Orthotics Technician Güneş Ecenaz Koca spoke about case studies within the scope of the event. Koca stated: “Contracture refers to restricted mobility in a joint and is usually seen in joints such as the knee or arm. In this condition, the joint cannot be fully opened. For example, it is not possible to open the knee; no matter how many people try, the knee or arm might break instead of opening. Contracture orthoses are used to treat such conditions. In addition, traction mechanisms can be applied to these orthoses. The contracture orthosis used for the elbow is in the form of an articulated splint. For the knee, an orthosis called a KAFO is used. Similarly, an articulated orthosis can be used for the ankle. The ankle joint and traction mechanism result from the patient's foot remaining in a plantarflexion position. This situation can create restriction in the foot, which can occur due to Achilles tendon shortening or tension in any tendon. However, such restrictions can be seen even without tendon shortening. By using a traction joint in the ankle, the foot's movement can be brought up to 90 degrees. In contracture situations, it is possible to open the movement in the joint externally with the help of a key. When the key is turned, the patient's knee or elbow can be easily opened up to 180 degrees.” 

“We apply the 3-point principle in scoliosis treatment.”

Explaining how scoliosis treatment is performed, Koca said: “We apply the 3-point principle in scoliosis treatment. However, there are some points you need to pay attention to when applying this principle. First, the apex is located in the lumbar region. That is, it usually starts around the junction of the thoracic and lumbar regions. After determining this point, you need to determine the other two points from the thoracic region and the sacral region, respectively. In this way, you can correctly correct the patient. Think of your hand as dough. How can you shape your hand? This can actually be thought of with a simple logic. When pushing the waist part inward in the corset, you need to pull the body to the other side. We determine how to do this by taking a plaster cast. When you take a plaster cast, you get a negative model. By working on this model, you can bring the spine to 180 degrees.”

“Your priority should be to offer solutions to the patient.”

Stating that producing solutions is the greatest source of satisfaction, Koca said: “Doing orthotics and prosthetics work does not just mean knowing the products or sticking to a list. Because you will also encounter unusual patients. For example, a flatfoot patient might come every day, but if you encounter a special case, will you be able to make that product? If you can make such products and offer solutions to the patient, you will stand out from other companies. This will advance you professionally. Most importantly, you should be able to satisfy yourself. You will be able to say, 'I solved this patient's problem, I helped them, I healed them.' What is important here is not just earning money or producing a product. Your priority should be to offer solutions to the patient, to provide them with results. This will be your greatest success and source of satisfaction.”

The event concluded after participants' questions were answered.