Analysis of compression/release stabilized transfemoral prosthetic socket by finite element modelling method

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Prosthetics Engineering
• Finite Element Analysis

Background:

• Transfemoral amputations require specialized prosthetic sockets.
• Understanding residual limb stress is crucial for socket comfort and function.
• Compression/Release Stabilized (CRS) sockets offer a novel approach to prosthetic fitting.

Observation:

• Finite element modeling was used to simulate stress on a transfemoral amputee's residual limb.
• Models were based on MRI data, simulating both donning and weight-bearing conditions.
• Maximum stress and pressure were observed in proximal anterior-medial regions.

Findings:

• In the donning condition, maximum von Mises stress was 277.7 kPa and maximum contact pressure was 254 kPa.
• During weight-bearing, maximum von Mises stress decreased to 191.9 kPa and contact pressure to 218.5 kPa.
• Observed stress and pressure levels remained below the suggested pain threshold.

Implications:

• The study provides critical biomechanical data for CRS socket performance.
• Findings can inform future iterations and optimization of prosthetic socket designs.
• This research contributes to improving the comfort and efficacy of prosthetic devices for amputees.