The Oregon orthotic KAFO system is characterized by what?

• A. Entirely metal components
• B. Plastic-only system
• C. Combination of plastic and metal components allowing triplanar control
• D. No joints

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that this KAFO uses both plastic and metal parts to give real control in three dimensions of movement. The plastic components form the molded shells and uprights that shape the limb and share load, while the metal joints and connectors provide durable, adjustable alignment. This combination allows precise tuning of the knee-ankle alignment in all three planes—sagittal (angle of flexion/extension), coronal (varus/valgus), and transverse (internal/external rotation). That triplex control is what sets this system apart.

Why the others don’t fit: a fully metal design would be heavier and less adaptable; a plastic-only system wouldn’t provide the same robust, adjustable joint control; and a KAFO with no joints would not offer functional movement control at all.