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King George's Medical University (KGMU) is set to acquire a vacuum suction machine designed to improve the fit and comfort of artificial prosthetic limbs.
The machine, which costs Rs 8-10 lakh, will facilitate more precise production of prostheses, enhancing their fit and addressing common issues such as air gaps and alignment challenges, particularly for hand and leg prosthetics.
Senior prosthetist and in-charge of prosthetic orthotic unit at KGMU's physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR) department, Shagun Singh, said: "The technology aims to reduce the sense of artificiality for recipients and provide a natural experience." During World Prosthetic and Orthotic Day, Singh explained that traditional prosthetics, often manually crafted with moulding machines, could lead to air gaps and alignment issues.
"We aim to improve usability. The machine introduces the use of polypropylene, which is expected to replace heavier thermosetting plastics. This switch is intended to make prostheses lighter," Singh added.
KGMU currently produces 12-15 new artificial limbs every month and repairs about a dozen more. Additionally, the university creates 250-300 assistive devices for individuals with partial limb functionality.
"An artificial hand costs around Rs 4,000 at KGMU, in contrast to approximately Rs 25,000 at private facilities, illustrating the institution's commitment to affordability. With the acquisition of this new machine, KGMU aims to increase its output and provide more lightweight, accurately fitted prosthetic options," Singh said.
Rally held on Prosthetic & Orthotic Day
An awareness rally was organised by Dr Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, KGMU, and Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences to mark International Prosthetic and Orthotic Day. The rally commenced from 1090 intersection at 7am and concluded at 9am. At least 100 participants joined the rally including prosthetic and orthotic specialists like VK Singh, Shagun Singh, Ranjit Kumar, Dharmveer Kumar, and Sant Prakash Gautam. "The event underscored the importance of accessible and advanced prosthetic and orthotic technology in enhancing the quality of life for individuals relying on artificial aids," said VK Singh.
