Report on the evaluation of the Vannini-Rizzoli Stabilizing Limb Orthosis.

The three models (Winter, Summer, and Elastic) of the Vannini-Rizzoli Stabilizing Limb Orthosis (V-RSLO) were evaluated over a two-year period (1989-1991). A total of 181 veterans with paralysis participated. Eighty-two percent of the participants were paraplegic, while 18 percent were quadriplegic. The primary objectives of this evaluation were to determine functional utility and patient acceptance through a subjective questionnaire; establish a selection criteria, develop a therapeutic treatment regimen, and establish methods to transfer the clinical experiences to other VA Medical Center physicians and clinicians. Through the course of the evaluation, a definitive selection criteria and treatment regimen was established to ensure the successful use of the V-RSLO. The findings showed that the V-RSLO was beneficial and was accepted by the participants as an alternative orthotic device for ambulation.