Case Study - Using Elevated Vacuum Systems for a Patient with Diabetes (AT22-Oct1-26)

Case Study: Using Elevated Vacuum Systems for a Patient with Diabetes (AT22-Oct1-26)

(2.0 Scientific Credits) This case study examines the application of elevated vacuum (EV) suspension in a prosthetic patient with type 2 diabetes and dysvascular disease—a population historically underrepresented in EV research despite frequently meeting clinical indicators for its use. The course walks through the patient's amputation history, a recurring distal wound following revision surgery, and the multidisciplinary decision to trial an EV system as an alternative to a fourth surgical procedure. Participants will review the prosthetic design process, including material selection, socket fabrication, and a structured wear-and-monitoring protocol, and will evaluate the clinical outcomes achieved through gradual progression of vacuum settings and wear time. The course highlights both the benefits and legitimate contraindications of EV suspension in dysvascular and diabetic populations, offering practical insight for clinicians considering this approach with medically complex patients.