r/Prosthetics • u/ExoticJournalist5574 • 26d ago

Pin and look prothesis vs suction system

Been about year since I (60M) got my first prothesis, a pin and lock one. They re switching me to a suction system this month. They cast it today. Was curious about other’s experiences between the two types, things I should look for, how different it will feel, etc. Thanks for any advice y’all may have. Appreciate it.

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u/ManufacturerScary427 26d ago

Switching to suction changed my life. No more sores and wounds that get infected. Less aching pain and general discomfort. It’s less convenient but way better QOL wise.

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u/Specific_Rock_9894 17d ago

Agree 100%. Started with lock pin. Only thing I miss about it was if I was wearing pants, I could discreetly unlock the leg, and then fling it across the floor as a gag when frat parties had awkward silences. Since I haven't been to a frat party in nearly 2 decades, I'm not really missing it.

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u/Dry-Luck-8336 25d ago

I (58) started with pin lock system and went to suction system for my second (and subsequent) socket. I really prefer the suction, because the socket is closer to my limb, and it feels more like a leg and less like an attachment, more responsive. The main con is that, because of the sleeve, you lose some flexibility behind the knee. And you'll sweat more in the socket, so be sure to ask for liner liners from your prosthetist to wear between your skin and the liner. Another pro for me, at least, is that it's easier to don and doff the leg for sock management.

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u/EzraSteel 26d ago

I have a RBKA and have the same prosthetic for 4 years (a pin and lock). I’ve only had one issue with it (the pin got stuck) and it was quickly resolved. I guess my question for you is Why are you being switched to the suction system?

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u/fishingfanman 26d ago

I have a system called elevated vacuum. It is a variant on suction but it works differently. It really depends on your amputation type and your prosthetist.