The initial prosthesis that you will be fitted with after a leg amputation is called a PTS (Patellar-Tendon-Supracondylar) prosthesis. It is a temporary measure that you will use for the first six to twelve months after the operation. After this time has elapsed you will be fitted with your permanent replacement limb. In order to fit the PTS prosthesis we first take a plaster cast of your stump. This we do in such a way that the top of the socket, called the brim, fits comfortably over the condyles (these are the two projections at the end of the femur). This is a basic method of making a cast, and the object of the exercise is to make you an interim prosthesis that is as comfortable as possible in order to get you mobilized as soon as possible after the amputation, and while the final permanent prosthesis is being manufactured. This interim prosthetic limb is extremely cost effective and helps to keep down any tendency for swelling.