An event titled “Meeting with the Sector: Introduction of Orthosis-Prosthesis Materials” was organized by the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program of Üsküdar Üniversitesi Health Services Vocational School (SHMYO). Yusuf Yıldırım, who actively works in the sector, met with students and shared his professional experiences. Yıldırım elaborated on orthosis and prosthesis materials in detail and discussed current technologies. Yıldırım also emphasized the importance of patient assessment and adjustments.
Making the opening speech for the event held at the Çarşı Campus, Orthopedic Prosthetics and Orthotics Program Head Lecturer Kübra Akkalay noted that such sectoral meetings are important for the professional development of students.
Orthotics and Prosthetics Materials Explained Practically
Yusuf Yıldırım, stating that he has been in the sector for approximately 12 years, provided comprehensive information to students about the materials used in the field of orthotics and prosthetics, their technical specifications, and how they should be selected according to patient needs.
Yıldırım stated; “Orthotics are generally used for individuals with existing limbs who suffer from muscle disorders or difficulty walking. Prosthetics are used in cases of limb loss.” Yıldırım specified that orthotics are used to support limbs in musculoskeletal problems, while prosthetics aim to restore function in individuals experiencing limb loss.
Within the scope of the event, Yıldırım gave a practical presentation on a below-knee prosthetic system, introducing prosthetic components one by one and discussing the differences between aluminum and steel materials. Emphasizing that the patient's weight, age, height, and activity level are decisive in material selection, Yıldırım stated that the silicone liner, in particular, is critically important for patient comfort and health.
Importance of Patient Assessment and Adjustments Emphasized
During the event, prosthetic assembly, socket placement, locking systems, tube adapters, and ankle adjustments were demonstrated practically. During the application, Yıldırım stated; “All 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
Current production techniques were also discussed at the event, covering information about prosthetic design processes using 3D scanner systems and digital measurement methods. Yıldırım emphasized the importance of digitalization in the sector, stating; “Thanks to 3D scanning systems, the measurement process is accelerated, and more precise results are obtained in terms of aesthetics and fit.” Furthermore, it was stressed that providing care, cleaning, and daily use training to patients using prostheses is an important part of professional responsibility.
Yusuf Yıldırım shared examples of situations students might encounter in the field in the future, particularly by addressing points to consider regarding shoe usage, correct donning of the silicone liner, and the warranty coverage of the prosthesis.
In the event where practical explanations and sectoral experiences were shared, students had the opportunity to ask their questions directly to industry representatives.
The event concluded with a group photo session.