Paediatric, Adolescent and Neuro-Orthopaedics in the Spotlight at OTWorld 2024
The world's largest congress on technical orthopaedics will focus on paediatric, adolescent and neuro-orthopaedics at the upcoming event in Leipzig. Evidence-based lectures and best practice examples from Germany and the US will deliver scientific content and provide inspiration on the complexities of day-to-day care for affected patients.
Sitting, crawling and learning to walk are important stages in developing motor skills during early childhood. Healthy children usually master these steps within the first 15 months of their lives. Children with congenital or acquired diseases and injuries that affect the musculoskeletal system need extensive medical support and a well-coordinated care team to master these developmental steps at their own pace.
Prosthetists and orthotists, orthopaedic footwear technicians, orthopaedists, neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and other professionals work hand in hand to develop tailor-made treatment plans that meet the individual needs of each child. Such treatment aims not only to resolve acute problems but also to take the long-term effects on the development and quality of life of young patients into consideration.
The World Congress will devote special attention to paediatric, adolescent and neuro-orthopaedics. These fields are very close to the hearts of the two congress presidents, Prof Dr Thomas Wirth and Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Ingo Pfefferkorn.
Innovative Approaches to Treating Skeletal Dysplasia and Soft Bones
In cooperation with the Association for Paediatric Orthopaedics (VKO), experts at the symposium entitled “Combining Conservative, Orthotic and Orthopaedic Surgery Treatments for Patients with Skeletal Dysplasia and Soft Bones” will take an in-depth look at specific therapeutic approaches. Their aim will be to demonstrate the need for a comprehensive approach to treating patients with complex musculoskeletal diseases. Led by Prof Dr Thomas Wirth and Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Ingo Pfefferkorn, this symposium will offer unique insights into integrative treatments for this broad group of patients while also providing an opportunity for discussion among experts in the field of paediatric orthopaedics.
Spina Bifida: German-American Dialogue on Paediatric Orthopaedics and Prosthetics
Colloquially referred to as "open back", spina bifida is a neural tube defect occurring in roughly one of every 1,000 births. The condition can cause nerves to visibly protrude through an open point in the spinal canal and into a sac (= cyst). From sensory disorders to paraplegia, its effects can vary greatly depending on the location of the vertebral arch defect and the extent of the nerve damage. The symposium entitled “Modern Treatment and Innovations for the Patient with Spina Bifida – US-German Exchange: Pediatric O&P” will provide participants with an integrative understanding of care for patients with spina bifida. Dipl.-Ing. Merkur Alimusaj and Lauren Levey from the US city of Philadelphia will lead the international dialogue.
Arm Prosthetics for Children and Adolescents
Arm prosthetics are particularly complex because of the individual needs and growth phases of children. Prostheses must go beyond being purely functional. They also need to support children's self-confidence and social integration. The adaptability of prostheses is crucial, as children grow quickly and their needs change. In addition to technical precision, arm prosthetics and orthopaedic treatment and care also require sensitive, child-friendly approaches in order to ensure the best possible quality of life for young patients.
In cooperation with the Association for Quality Assurance in Arm Prosthetics (VQSA e.V.), a high-profile panel of experts will be examining special requirements and innovative solutions in the care of young patients with arm prostheses. Led by Michael Schäfer and Merkur Alimusaj, the symposium entitled “Special Requirements and Opportunities for Children and Adolescents with Arm Prostheses” will offer deep insights into the complex requirements and wide range of options in paediatric and adolescent care.
You can find out about more events on the subject of paediatric, adolescent and neuro-orthopaedics in our online congress programme, available from mid-January 2024.
