Moisture mitigation using a vented liner and a vented socket system for individuals with transfemoral amputation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Heat and sweat buildup at the skin-liner interface is a significant challenge for amputees, leading to discomfort and potential skin breakdown.
• Current liners, often made of non-conductive materials, can exacerbate sweating during activity or warm conditions, affecting liner performance and residual limb health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a vented liner-socket system (VS) compared to a non-vented system (nVS) in reducing relative humidity (RH) at the skin-liner interface during physical activity.
• To assess the impact of the vented system on perceived sweating and user-reported outcomes related to prosthesis use.

Main Methods:

• Nine individuals with lower limb loss using a non-vented socket were randomized to either the vented liner-socket system (VS) or a non-vented socket (nVS).
• Participants engaged in a 20-minute treadmill walk to simulate activity.
• Relative humidity (RH) at the skin-liner interface was measured, and participants reported their perceived sweating levels and completed the Comprehensive Lower Limb Amputee Socket Survey (CLASS).

Main Results:

• The vented liner-socket system (VS) demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in relative humidity (RH) at the skin-liner interface (p=0.0002).
• Participants using the VS reported significantly improved perceived sweating (p=0.028).
• No significant differences were found in CLASS outcomes, indicating comparable suspension, stability, and comfort between the VS and nVS.

Conclusions:

• The vented liner-socket system effectively mitigates heat and humidity buildup at the skin-liner interface during activity.
• This system offers a tangible benefit for amputees experiencing sweating issues, enhancing comfort without negatively impacting prosthesis fit or function.
• The study provides objective evidence supporting the use of vented liner-socket systems for improved residual limb management in prosthetic users.