KD (Knee Disarticulation)
What is a knee-disarticulation (KD) prosthesis?
A knee-disarticulation prosthesis is used when the amputation is through the knee joint and the thigh bone is left intact. The residual limb is often long and may tolerate some end-bearing. The prosthetic knee is attached below the residual limb, so the knee axis sits lower than on a transfemoral limb and can look bulkier when sitting.
Why is a knee-disarticulation (KD) prosthesis used?
Knee disarticulation may be chosen to preserve a long lever arm, distal weight-bearing, and the thigh musculature, which can aid socket control compared with a shorter transfemoral residual limb. It is used when the tibia cannot be saved but the femur and distal femur can. Prosthetic fitting must account for the bulbous end and for knee-center height.
What are the benefits of a knee-disarticulation (KD) prosthesis?
- Long residual limb can improve leverage and control
- Potential for distal end-bearing in some patients
- Avoids cutting through the femur
- May offer a more stable socket interface than a short transfemoral limb, with tradeoffs in knee-center position and cosmetics
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