An event titled “Meeting the Sector: Orthotics and Prosthetics Material Presentation” was organized by the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program of Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (VSHS). Actively working in the sector, Yusuf Yıldırım met with students and shared his professional experience. Addressing orthotics and prosthetics materials in detail, Yıldırım also introduced current technologies and emphasized the importance of patient assessment and proper adjustments.
The opening speech of the event, held at the Çarşı Campus, was delivered by Instructor Kübra Akkalay, Head of the Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program, who highlighted the importance of such sectoral meetings for students’ professional development.
Orthotics and prosthetics materials explained through hands-on practice
Stating that he has been working in the sector for nearly 12 years, Yusuf Yıldırım provided students with comprehensive information on materials used in orthotics and prosthetics, their technical properties, and how they should be selected according to patient needs.
Yıldırım stated, “Orthoses are generally used for individuals whose limbs are intact but who experience muscle disorders or difficulty walking. In cases of limb loss, prostheses are used.” He explained that orthoses aim to support limbs in musculoskeletal system disorders, while prostheses are designed to restore function in individuals with limb loss.
As part of the event, Yıldırım delivered a hands-on demonstration using a below-knee prosthetic system. He introduced prosthetic components one by one and explained the differences between aluminum and steel materials. Emphasizing that a patient’s weight, age, height, and activity level are decisive factors in material selection, Yıldırım highlighted the critical importance of silicone liners for patient comfort and health.
Emphasis on patient assessment and adjustments
During the event, prosthetic assembly, socket placement, locking systems, tube adapters, and ankle adjustments were demonstrated in practice. Yıldırım noted, “All of these adjustments are determined according to the patient’s anatomical structure and posture. More than one system can be applied to the same patient.”
Current technologies and patient education discussed
The event also addressed current production techniques, providing information on prosthetic design processes using 3D scanning systems and digital measurement methods. Emphasizing the importance of digitalization in the sector, Yıldırım stated, “Thanks to 3D scanning systems, the measurement process becomes faster, and results that are more precise in terms of aesthetics and compatibility can be achieved.”
He also underlined that patient education on maintenance, hygiene, and daily use of prostheses is an essential part of professional responsibility. Sharing practical examples, Yıldırım discussed issues such as proper shoe use, correct application of silicone liners, and considerations related to prosthesis warranty coverage that students may encounter in the field.
Through hands-on demonstrations and the transfer of sectoral experience, students had the opportunity to ask questions directly to a sector professional.
The event concluded with a group photo session.