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Using mechanical testing to assess the effect of lower-limb prosthetic socket texturing on longitudinal suspension
Julia Quinlan1, Jessica Yohay1, Vasanth Subramanian1
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America.
Plos One
|August 20, 2020
Summary
Textured 3D-printed prosthetic sockets significantly reduced longitudinal displacement compared to smooth sockets. However, novel textures did not outperform the Original Squirt-Shape (OSS) socket under passive suction suspension.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Effective lower limb prosthetic function relies on secure socket suspension to prevent longitudinal pistoning.
- Increasing interface friction via socket texturing, potentially achievable with 3D printing, may enhance suspension.
- Current suspension methods and socket designs require further investigation for optimal performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of socket surface textures on longitudinal displacement under passive suction and active vacuum suspension.
- To compare the performance of 3D-printed textured sockets against a smooth, thermoformed socket and a reference 3D-printed socket (OSS).
- To evaluate novel texturing strategies for improving prosthetic socket suspension.
Main Methods:
- Development of a mock residual limb and a mechanical testing protocol to assess longitudinal displacement.
- Fabrication of 14 textured polypropylene copolymer sockets and one smooth socket using the Squirt-Shape™ 3D Printer.
- Testing sockets under four distraction force levels (100 N to 650 N) with both passive suction and active vacuum suspension using a hydraulic material testing system.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant three-way interaction was found between suspension type, force level, and texture (p < 0.0005).
- Textured sockets demonstrated significantly different longitudinal displacements compared to the smooth reference socket across all forces and suspension types (p < 0.0005).
- Texturing significantly decreased longitudinal displacement compared to the smooth socket, but no novel textured socket outperformed the OSS socket under passive suction.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed textured polypropylene copolymer sockets can significantly reduce longitudinal displacement compared to smooth sockets.
- The developed mechanical testing protocol provides a reliable method for evaluating prosthetic socket suspension.
- Further research is needed to optimize textured socket designs for superior suspension, particularly under passive suction conditions.
