New fund to provide Microprocessor Controlled Prosthetic Knees in Wales

Health Minister Vaughan Gething has announced a new £700k fund to provide specialist Microprocessor Controlled Prosthetic Knees (MPK) to eligible patients. Currently the MPK’s are available to veterans who live in Wales who were injured in service.

This type of prosthetic knee improves people’s long-term health, independent living and quality of life by giving the best mobility and function possible.  Microprocessor Controlled Knees (MPKs) are a category of prosthetic knee components that are used by people who have lost a leg at or above the knee.  MPKs use computer technology in order to provide enhanced stability and safer walking. This technology makes it easier for the user to navigate slopes, stairs and uneven terrain with greater stability.

The fund will be available from 1^st April to those eligible via the NHS Prosthetic and Amputee Rehabilitation services, which are delivered in-house by three specialist Artificial Limb and Appliance Centres (ALACs) located in Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham.  Those eligible can discuss this at their next assessment with their prosthetists.

Minister for Health and Social Service, Vaughan Gething, said: “The funding announced today will make a huge difference to those who are eligible for the Microprocessor Controlled Prosthetic Knees (MPK).  This type of knee improves the quality of life for the individual and their families, enabling them to live as independently as possible. I am delighted that from 1^st April all health boards in Wales will be able to access the fund.”

Ian Massey, Clinical Lead Prosthetist at the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre, Rookwood Hospital, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Wales will be able to supply Microprocessor Prosthetic Knees to its civilian amputee population.  The provision of these devices will significantly enhance the quality of life of many of the patients who attend the specialist prosthetic service centres in Wales.

“We look forward to introducing and developing this service using these technologically advanced products in our centres.”

(Lead image: Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics)