Major: Orthopedic Prosthesis and Orthosis (Ortopedik Protez ve Ortez)
Program Overview
A hands-on, medical-technical program that trains students to design, fabricate, and fit orthopedic prostheses (artificial limbs) and orthoses (supportive devices). Combines anatomy, biomechanics, materials science, and patient care to prepare graduates for careers as prosthetists, orthotists, and rehabilitation technicians in hospitals, clinics, and orthopedic workshops.
Key Learning Objectives
- Master human anatomy and biomechanics for prosthetics/orthotics.
- Learn patient assessment and measurement techniques.
- Gain expertise in designing and fabricating prostheses/orthoses.
- Develop skills in materials selection (metals, plastics, composites).
- Understand gait analysis and rehabilitation principles.
- Explore CAD/CAM and 3D printing for custom devices.
- Apply patient communication and ethical standards.
Core Courses
- Anatomy and Biomechanics
- Musculoskeletal system, movement analysis.
- Orthopedic Prosthetics
- Lower/upper limb prostheses, sockets, and alignment.
- Orthopedic Orthotics
- Braces, splints, and spinal orthoses.
- Patient Assessment and Measurement
- Casting, scanning, and fitting techniques.
- Materials and Fabrication
- Thermoplastics, carbon fiber, metals, and 3D printing.
- Gait Analysis and Rehabilitation
- Motion capture, gait training, and patient education.
- CAD/CAM in Prosthetics/Orthotics
- Digital design and manufacturing.
- Clinical Practicum
- Hands-on training in hospitals or orthopedic workshops.
- Capstone Project
- Design and fabricate a custom prosthesis/orthosis.
Assessment Methods
- Prosthesis/orthosis design and fabrication projects
- Patient assessment and fitting simulations
- Gait analysis and rehabilitation reports
- CAD/CAM and 3D printing assignments
- Capstone project presentations
Tools & Resources
- Equipment: Casting tools, 3D scanners, CNC machines, gait labs
- Software: CAD (SolidWorks, Fusion 360), gait analysis software
- Books:
- Prosthetics & Orthotics in Clinical Practice by Bella J. May
- Orthotics and Prosthetics in Rehabilitation by Michelle M. Lusardi
Prerequisites
- Interest in medical technology, biomechanics, or patient care.
- Basic technical/manual skills helpful.
Program Duration
- 2–4 years (associate/bachelor’s), including clinical practicum.
Certifications (Required/Optional)
- Certified Prosthetist/Orthotist (CPO) (Turkish or international certification)
- CAD/CAM Certification for Prosthetics/Orthotics
Career Paths
- Prosthetist/Orthotist (hospitals, private clinics)
- Rehabilitation Technician (physical therapy centers)
- Orthopedic Workshop Manager (device fabrication)
- Clinical Specialist (prosthetic/orthotic companies)
- Research Assistant (biomechanics, medical device innovation)
Why This Major?
Turkey’s aging population and advancements in medical technology increase demand for custom prosthetics/orthotics. This program provides hands-on training in design, fabrication, and patient care, preparing graduates for rewarding careers in a growing, impactful field. Ideal for those passionate about medical technology and improving patients’ quality of life.
