KGMU to acquire New Vacuum Suction Machine to Boost Prosthetic Care

Lucknow: In a significant step to revolutionize prosthetics, the 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 new machine, which costs around 8-10 lakhs, will facilitate more precise production of prostheses.

This advanced technology is expected to reduce common issues such as air gaps, misalignment, and discomfort that are often seen in traditional prosthetic limbs.

Senior prosthetist and in-charge of the Prosthetic Orthotic Unit at KGMU's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) Department, Shagun Singh, explained that the technology aims to reduce the sense of artificiality for recipients and provide a more natural experience. During World Prosthetic and Orthotic Day, Singh highlighted that traditional prosthetics, often manually crafted using moulding machines, can lead to issues such as air gaps and misalignment.

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''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.\\

Currently, KGMU which produces 12-15 new artificial limbs every month also repairs approximately a dozen more. The institution also manufactures 250-300 assistive devices for people with partial limb functionality annually.

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Dr Shakuntala Misra organized an awareness rally to highlight the importance of accessible and advanced technology in prosthetics and orthotics. The rally, held at Rehabilitation University, KGMU, and Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, was organized to mark International Prosthetic and Orthotic Day.

The rally began at the 1090 intersection at 7 am and concluded at 9 am. The rally was attended by at least 100 participants including prosthetic and orthotic specialists like VK Singh, Shagun Singh, Ranjit Kumar, Dharmveer Kumar, and Sant Prakash Gautam.

VK Singh stated that 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.