Prostheses

It varies depending on the situation, but on average the process from fitting to delivery takes several weeks. After an introductory interview and possibly a gait analysis, a prosthesis is designed and made. This is followed by the fitting phase and functional training.

Yes, in Belgium most basic prostheses (including myo-electric and bionic prostheses) are even eligible for full reimbursement via the RIZIV. An additional payment may be required for advanced prostheses or sports prostheses. The Amputee Care Center will help you with the application and administration so that you are clear about your rights and do not skip any steps.

Even if you, as a Dutch person, have a basic prosthesis made at Amputee Care Center in Belgium, it will often be reimbursed, partly or completely, by your Dutch health insurer. However, this also and mainly depends on your policy. Amputee Care Center is a recognised partner of most Dutch health insurers. We will therefore be happy to help you with your application and to see what is possible in your situation.

A good fit is essential. That is why at Amputee Care Center we work with special fitting prostheses and you can try on the prosthesis several times. Moreover, with 3D scanning of the size and printing of the prosthesis socket, we ensure the most accurate fit. If there are complaints afterwards, we can adjust or customise the prosthesis. Comfort and functionality are paramount. Please contact us as soon as possible if you experience any discomfort. Even if your prosthesis was not made with us, we will be happy to help you.

A well-fitting prosthesis should not hurt. Pressure sensitivity or getting used to new loads may occur in the beginning. In case of pain, we always look at the cause together, whether it is fit, skin irritation or walking pattern.

The Amputee Care Center is a NEN-EN-ISO 13485-certified supplier of medical devices, including prostheses in particular. This is an internationally recognised quality standard that applies specifically to manufacturers and suppliers of medical devices.

This certification means that we:

• Meet the highest safety and quality requirements in the development, production and delivery of orthopaedics and prostheses.
• Work according to standardised processes that are continuously monitored and improved.
• Carefully manage risks at every stage of the prosthetics process, from design to aftercare.
• Guarantee clear documentation and traceability of every device we supply.
• Be legally compliant with the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR) legislation, which strictly controls the quality of medical devices.

As a patient, this means one thing above all: you get a device that is safe, of high quality, and supplied by an orthopaedic company (Spronken) that meets the strictest standards within the healthcare sector. An internationally recognised quality label also gives extra confidence to hospitals and rehabilitation centres that have their own quality label and quality system. Thus, surgeons, doctors, physiotherapists, insurers and other healthcare providers who work with us know that their patients are in safe hands.

When choosing a prosthetic centre, prosthetic workshop or orthopaedics company, it is important to look beyond location or availability. If you are looking for a centre of expertise, pay attention to the following and compare the quality of orthopaedic companies and prosthetics suppliers:

• Total care: Will you be supported by a team of specialists such as specialised prosthetists/bandagists, orthopaedic technologists, orthopaedic technicians and consultants, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists or by just one person? Are you offered a total concept at the orthopaedic prosthetics company?
• Innovation and technology: Does the centre use modern techniques such as digital gait analysis or 3D printing of prostheses? This can make a big difference in fit and functionality.
• Aftercare and follow-up: Are you properly followed up even after your prosthesis is made? Good long-term follow-up is very important. Are all follow-up consultations free of charge? Is your prosthetist easily accessible? Also in case of problems?
• Quality certification: Check whether the orthopaedic company is NEN-EN-ISO 13485-certified. This international standard indicates that the company making your prosthesis meets strict quality requirements for medical devices and processes.

Amputee Care Center by Spronken is NEN-EN-ISO 13485 certified and thus meets all these conditions. We combine technological innovation with personal assistance and meet the highest quality standards within the medical device sector.

Yes, at Amputee Care Center, we specialise in designing and making prostheses for children. We are experienced in paediatric prostheses for the lower and upper limb.

Paediatric prostheses are custom-made by us and can be adjusted as the child grows. We make sure they are comfortable and suitable for play, sports and school. Our team has a lot of experience with young prosthesis wearers. So every child gets a solution that fits his or her life.

Ideally, the first meeting with a prosthetist should start before amputation if possible. At Amputee Care Center, we recommend contacting us as early as possible. This can already be done while preparing for a planned amputation operation. This way, we can provide timely advice, explanations and take the first steps towards a suitable prosthesis.

Most parents contact the specialists at Amputee Care Center even before the birth of their child who will need a prosthesis in the future. This is because a congenital defect can often be seen on ultrasound. We accompany your baby right from birth. A first prosthesis comes later, but good contact with a trusted bandagist-prosthetist helps to make those first months and years of life as pleasant as possible.

With congenital defects, it is important to get in touch before or soon after birth. We can then think along from the start, and start the first aids or prostheses at the right time. Early guidance ensures smoother development and better long-term results. Children who get used to using a prosthesis from an early age benefit immensely later on.