Text on Partial Foot Prostheses
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While I was in England in October, I spotted the Second Edition of a text titled Partial Foot Amputations published by the Swedish Orthopaedic Association. This excellent and succinct treatise was written by several colleagues from ISPO. The primary author is Bengt Soderberg, who I consider one of the most talented and visionary clinical practitioners in the field of P&O. His collaborators on this volume include Roland Schaarschuch [a CPO from Otto Bock Scandinavia], Bjorn Persson [a PhD orthopaedic surgeon from Sweden], and Anders Wykman [an orthopaedic surgeon from Helsingborg Hospital].
This slim volume provides a comprehensive overview of virtually all of the named partial foot amputations, including examples of the range of orthotic and prosthetic approaches to each level. The numerous color photos and line drawings are an excellent resource for the practicing prosthetist who wants to "see" different devices.
In addition to highlighting what little objective evidence there is in this controversial area of practice, the book offers a wealth of practical advice on such topics as casting, shoe modifications, and device design. The emphasis on biomechanical principles is commendable, as this provides a rational basis for managing these challenging amputation levels. The opening chapter, written by an amputee who has lived through the evolution of prosthetic designs for 75 years, sets the patient-centered tone for the rest of the book.
I know of no other resource that even comes close to offering as much useful information as this slim volume, so the occasional awkward translated phrase is of little significance. I recommend this text to any professional with an interest in partial foot prostheses; it is a must-read for any student entering the field of prosthetics.
It can be ordered from the Scandinavian Orthopaedic Laboratory at Helsingborg Hospital in Sweden by contacting them via email at helsingborg@sol-ota.com; ask for publication series number 13.