RIGID DRESSING

Typically made from synthetic casting materials and extends above the knee.  Worn for approximately one week before a new dressing is applied. You were seen during your surgery for application of the rigid dressing. This is essentially a cast to help protect your limb, minimize swelling and prevent a knee flexion contracture. The strap attaches to the included belt which is to be worn at all times. This will help prevent the cast from sliding down your limb and causing unwanted pressure and discomfort. We will see you weekly for a cast change and for wound inspection. The surgical team will be present to answer any questions you may have at that time, or simple call us at our office during the interim.

SEMI-RIGID DRESSING

This is a custom made device that extends above the knee and is made of a semi-flexible plastic. Composed of two parts, a front piece that overlaps the back piece and is held in place with Velcro straps.

1. Socks of differing thickness called “ply” have been supplied with your SRRD.
   
2. The SRRD shell is usually easiest to apply while lying in bed with your limb fully extended at the knee so the entire limb can be supported from underneath.  After applying the correct ply of socks, place your residual limb into the back shell of the device.  Lay the front shell on top of your limb so that the front overlaps the back shell.  The kneecap area of the device should line up with your kneecap.  Pull each Velcro strap through the corresponding loop and back against it to lock into place.
3. It is normal and expected for your limb to change in shape and size after surgery.  It is important that your SRRD be snug, but not too tight, at all times.  As your limb reduces in size, you must increase the ply of socks to maintain the snug fit.  Your prosthetist, therapist, and surgeon can assist you in determining the correct sock ply prior to leaving the hospital.  You will have hopefully learned the correct “feel” of the device before you leave, but if you need assistance, please call our office.

IPOP

Immediate Post-Operative Prosthesis (IPOP) is similar to the rigid/SRRD dressing dressing, but has a pylon and foot attached to allow limited touch down weight bearing.  Both are applied immediately following the amputation while still in the operating room.