Amputations in the lower limb are now carried out principally in the elderly because of vascular disease. The management and rehabilitation of the amputee is best achieved by a team approach with the close cooperation of the different disciplines. Attention should be paid to the psychological state of the patient who should be encouraged to mobilise as soon as possible. Prosthesis design and manufacture has changed greatly in recent years. Widespread use is now made of lightweight plastic materials. Modern technology is being applied to the design and manufacture of prostheses, with increasing use of modular systems of components.

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From 1998 to 2001, 112 lengthening procedures with or without deformity correction were performed in 108 children by external fixation with the Ilizarov method. Of these cases, 16.9% did not lead to a solid bone consolidation. Two children were operated the second time, mainly because of the parent's decision. Seventeen delayed unions or nonunions in 13 children were treated with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound. All 17 cases healed within 3 to 12 months without any risk of surgical intervention.

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