Prosthetics
Medical Specialties
Due to trauma and other causes, there are a tremendous number of patients in the Tenwek referral area that are in need of a new limb. Tenwek Orthopedic Surgery does an average of three amputations per week, mainly related to trauma. Thanks to efforts by USA prosthetists Tanner Claridge and Allen Dolberry and a generous grant from the Sandpoint, Idaho Rotary Club, a major effort has taken place to revitalize the Tenwek prosthetics lab and provide support and training for Tenwek’s prosthetic staff.
While these efforts have resulted in making prostheses more readily available to the amputee population, there is still a great need for prosthetic supplies and manufacturing equipment that will allow Tenwek to expand its services to meet the ever-growing demand for these life-changing prosthetic limbs. Cost can be a very real obstacle for a person in need of a new prosthesis. Donations are needed to help make this possible for people who otherwise cannot afford a new limb.
Prosthetics wish list
One-time equipment needs:
- Socket router machine with its components: KES 1.5million (about $11,600 USD)
- 3D laser posture for prosthesis alignment: KES 1.8 Million (about $14,000 USD)
- Prosthetic assembly fixture: KES 2.0 million (about $15,000 USD)
- Infra-red oven (1x230volts): KES 3.6 million (about $28,000 USD)
- Suction machine: KES 2.4 million (about $18,600 USD)
Recurring needs (cost of prosthesis, per-patient):
- Adult above-knee prosthesis: 150,000 ksh (about $1200 USD)
- Pediatric above-knee prosthesis 107,000 ksh (about $850 USD)
- Adult below-knee prosthesis: 75,000 ksh (about $600 USD)
- Pediatric belowo-knee prosthesis 50,000 ksh (about $400 US)
Daily Responsibilities of Visiting an Prosthetist
Assist occupational therapist and prosthetic technician in evaluation, casting, fabrication, and fitting of lower limb prostheses.
Department Staff
Chebon Silongi (occupational therapist); Samuel Ndeke (prosthetic technician). (See attached photos of Chebon and Samuel)
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