Wounded Warriors Amputation Alternative -- Research Summary

WHAT IS THE IDEO? The Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis, or IDEO, was designed by prosthetist Ryan Blanck at the Center for the Intrepid. It is a custom-fit device made from carbon and fiberglass that supports the foot and ankle and resembles an amputee's running prosthetic. The energy-storing orthopedic device, along with an extensive rehabilitation program, is allowing wounded warriors who previously had difficulties walking or standing due to lower leg injuries to run again.
(Source: www.army.mil)

HOW IT WORKS: The IDEO is custom-made using a mold from the warrior's leg. The three piece device fits in shoes and boots. The top piece that is shaped like the top portion of a prosthetic leg is placed just below the knee. Both pieces are held together by a sturdy and flexible support bar. The upper and lower sections are joined by a carbon fiber dynamic response strut system originating from prosthetic technology used with the high-activity amputee population within the Department of Defense.

In order to maximize the full benefits of the IDEO, warriors go through extensive rehab sessions. During the initial sessions, warriors are trained on how to step with the device. As they progress through the rehab, they are introduced to more stringent training that involves running and jumping up and down and side to side. Then weights are introduced into the rehab.
(Source: www.army.mil)

THE STUDY: A study performed at The Center for the Intrepid found that the IDEO improved performance 10 percent to 37 percent when compared with three commercial braces. Performance measurements included walking speed over smooth and rocky terrain, the ability to climb stairs, the 40-yard dash and other tests of speed and agility.
(Source: www.stripes.com)

HIGH PRAISE FOR IDEO: Dr. Michael Bosse, clinical chair of the Major Trauma Extremity Research Consortium and an orthopedic surgeon at the Carolinas Medical Center in N.C., said that the IDEO has the potential to be one of the most significant medical advancements from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“This will change the game for patients that don’t get amputations,” said Bosse, who has seen the device in action and has no financial stake in it. “And the long term benefits for society are potentially huge.” (Source: www.stripes.com) MORE
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