Assessing Phase-Change Materials as Effective Long-Term Biosensors in Limb Prosthetics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Microclimate control at the skin-socket interface in limb prostheses is a significant clinical challenge.
• Phase-change materials (PCMs) offer potential as biosensors to manage temperature fluctuations in prosthetic systems.
• PCMs can enhance socket conditions, improving user comfort and reducing skin issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term effects of prosthetic liners equipped with PCM biosensors on user outcomes.
• To compare the performance of PCM liners against conventional liners in transtibial prosthesis users.

Main Methods:

• A double-blinded, longitudinal crossover study design was employed.
• Transtibial prosthesis users participated, alternating between conventional and PCM liners for six months each.
• Prosthesis utilization, physical performance, and gait symmetry were assessed using Modus StepWatch, 2-minute walk test, and TekScan F-Scan.

Main Results:

• Quantitative data trends indicated a preference for PCM liners, particularly in gait symmetry.
• No statistically significant differences were observed in prosthesis utilization, physical performance, or gait symmetry between PCM and conventional liners.
• Individual data comparisons were performed throughout the study duration.

Conclusions:

• While PCM liners demonstrated favorable trends, they did not yield statistically significant improvements over conventional liners in the studied parameters.
• Further research may be needed to optimize PCM liner design or explore other outcome measures.
• The study highlights the ongoing need for advanced solutions in prosthetic interface management.