Taking a confident step

Traditional orthotics provide stable support for patients but often compromise the knee joint's natural bending ability. This limitation can result in a stiff gait, fatigue, and an increased risk of muscle and joint strain. To address these challenges, Prince of Wales Hospital's Prosthetic-Orthotic Department first introduced a carbon fibre e-mag active knee ankle foot orthosis (CF e-mag active calliper). By harnessing carbon fibre's lightweight yet high-strength properties, an electronic knee joint and 3D printing technology, this CF e-mag active calliper is custom-made that balances functionality, comfort, and aesthetics for each patient, with immediate adjustments and power assistance based on their gait to help walk more safely and naturally. It has already been successfully applied to a patient with poliomyelitis.

The production process is rigorous. The responsible prosthetist-orthotists must undergo specialised training, and manufacturing takes place in a dedicated carbon fibre workshop of Haven of Hope Hospital where proper air extraction and dust treatment are in place. This cross-cluster collaboration empowers patients to regain confidence in taking their steps.