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Bioelectric Analyses of an Osseointegrated Intelligent Implant Design System for Amputees
Published on: July 15, 2009
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An adaptive prosthetic socket for people with transtibial amputation.
Joan E Sanders1, Andrew C Vamos2, Joseph C Mertens2
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, 3720 15th Ave NE, Box 355061, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA. jsanders@uw.edu.
Scientific Reports
|May 15, 2024
Summary
This study tested an adaptive prosthetic socket that automatically adjusts fit during walking. It improved user activity and reduced manual adjustments, suggesting a better solution for limb amputation socket fit challenges.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Background:
- Proper prosthetic socket fit is crucial for individuals with limb amputation to prevent injury and maintain quality of life.
- Manual adjustments of prosthetic sockets, such as adding prosthetic socks, are burdensome and can negatively impact user function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a motor-driven adaptive prosthetic socket that automatically adjusts socket size during walking.
- To compare the performance of the adaptive socket with traditional locked and manually adjustable sockets.
Main Methods:
- A motor-driven adaptive socket with an integrated proportional-integral controller was developed.
- Inductive sensors measured socket fit, and the controller adjusted socket size automatically during walking.
- The system was tested in 12 participants with transtibial amputation over a take-home period.
Main Results:
- The adaptive socket's controller was active during 68% of walking time.
- Participants with higher daily walking times (>20 min/day) showed increased activity, reduced doff time, and fewer manual adjustments with the adaptive socket.
- Nine out of 12 participants expressed willingness to use the motor-driven adjustable socket due to its potential to mitigate socket fit issues.
Conclusions:
- The motor-driven adaptive prosthetic socket shows promise in improving prosthetic socket fit and user experience for individuals with transtibial amputation.
- Further improvements in the size and weight of the adaptive socket are recommended for wider adoption.
- Automatic socket adjustment during ambulation can reduce user burden and enhance functional outcomes.
