Cameron's Prosthetics

Cameron uses several different prosthetic limbs to enhance his mobility and function since the loss of three of his limbs. Most individuals that loose both legs above the knees find that it takes a great deal of additional energy to walk than before they lost their legs. Also, the way the prosthetic limbs fit onto the residual limbs is critical for using bilateral above knee prostheses. Additionally, the residual limb length and the overall health and weight of the person can be a factor. Fortunately, Cameron’s limbs were amputated almost at the knees, which provide a very long lever arm to move the prostheses. Also, he continues to exercise and manage his weight as the heavier a person is the more difficult it will be to successfully use bilateral above knee prosthetic legs.

Cameron’s lower extremity prostheses are made up of the patented Hanger ComfortFlex™ Socket System. They are held on by suction. This new approach to socket design has integrated channels and grooves to accommodate and stimulate muscle growth in the residual limbs. Since Cameron was fit with this type of socket design, the size of his residual limbs has actually increased the more he wears them. As the muscles in the residual limbs grow, it may be necessary to either make adjustments to the sockets to allow for this increase or even build new sockets to accommodate the increased muscle size. The socket is by far the most important part of any prosthetic limb as it is the connecting point between the residual limb and the artificial limb. The socket must fit securely and yet be comfortable or the person won’t want to wear the prosthesis.

Cameron has several different components that attach below the sockets. For everyday walking Cameron uses the Hanger Complete System, which uses the ComfortFlex Sockets with the Otto Bock C-Leg computer knee system. For activities like swimming, snorkeling and body boarding, a device called an Active Ankle replaces the computer knee. This device allows for the foot to be pointed straight and to allow for swim fins to fit over the feet. Since the Active Ankles are attached directly to the ComfortFlex Sockets, there is less resistance when kicking the legs while in the water.

Cameron also has a specialized pair of running legs, which utilize ultra-lightweight hydraulic knee units and carbon fiber sprint feet. These legs can be used for various running activities but since the sprint foot doesn’t have a heel, they are not very practical for walking or other activities. Cameron has used the sprint legs to compete in the Hanger Endeavor Games where he continues to improve his times in the 100 and 200 meter sprints.

Cameron’s upper limb has been a challenge to fit successfully with a prosthetic arm. The residual limb length is only a couple of inches below the shoulder, which doesn't provide a lot of surface area to encapsulate into an upper extremity socket. Since Cameron’s accident, he has been fit with several different designs to evaluate the system that will provide him with the most function and control.

His current upper extremity prosthesis is made up of an Alps silicone liner with a distal pin attachment. This locks into the carbon fiber frame, which also has a suspension strap that hooks around his left arm. Cameron has a body powered, full-length prosthetic arm with a voluntary opening hook attachment for everyday use. He also has a specialized swim arm with an attachment that gives him the ability to paddle and work out his remaining muscles while swimming. The swim attachment can be replaced with another device, which can be used for photography.

It has taken a team approach to successfully fit Cameron with prosthetic limbs that provide him with the function and mobility that he would otherwise not be able to enjoy. More importantly, it is Cameron’s positive attitude and determination that has been paramount to the success he has earned using prosthetic limbs. He is an example to all who face a similar situation with dealing with multiple limb loss and how to overcome the daily struggles these individuals face.

— Randy Richardson, Hanger Orthopedic Group