Certain equipment may need to be hired from the hospital which may include

You will also need to purchase dressing products, so that the pin site dressings can be done at home. The approximate costs of these are $30. The Limb Reconstruction nurse will give you instructions on what to purchase.

Positioning and lifting

Correct positioning will be taught by the physiotherapist. This is to prevent the complication of contracture. A contracture is an abnormal shortening of the soft tissues and muscles around the joint. It results in stiffness and deformity. Common sites of contracture are hip, knee, foot and toes.

Careful positioning, splinting and following your physiotherapy regime can prevent contractures developing. To prevent a foot deformity, always use the splint or sandal provided, particularly when resting in bed. To prevent knee contractures, it is vital that the child does not have a pillow placed under the knee. The use of pillows or a rolled up towel under the ankle will ensure that the knee remains straight.

Older children with fixators can be very heavy, particularly if both legs are treated. The Occupational Therapist (OT) may be of assistance with providing equipment (eg. Hoists). Likewise if you have any concerns about lifting your child or about the amount of support you have at home please discuss them with the Limb Reconstruction nurse, or the nurses on the ward.