Advances in prosthetics technology are usually more applicable to the developed world than a country like Afghanistan, even though it has one of the highest amputation rates. With this in mind, U.S. Army Task Force Spartan soldiers have produced a simple and easily reproduced prototype prosthetic leg that may offer local Afghan doctors a sustainable solution to making their own prosthetics for victims of improvised explosive devices and land mines.
On June 26, the first prototype leg went to an 8-year-old child who lost both legs after stepping on a land mine.
The prototype is a simple cast attached to a sturdy metal rod with a flat hook. The cast can be fitted in as little as one day and recast to accommodate growth. The metal rod and flat hooked foot are easily reproduced and allow a patient to walk more naturally.
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