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Report on the evaluation of the DAV/Seattle Knee
1Rehabilitation Research and Development Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore, MD 21202-4051.
Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development
|January 1, 1994
Summary
The DAV/Seattle Knee, a lightweight prosthetic for above-knee amputations, was evaluated for veteran mobility. Clinical trials confirmed the artificial knee is safe and reliable when fitted correctly.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Technology
- Prosthetics
Background:
- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sought to improve mobility for veterans with above-knee amputations.
- Existing prosthetic knees offered limited mobility compared to natural function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clinically evaluate the DAV/Seattle Knee for safety, reliability, and user acceptance among veterans.
- To identify necessary modifications for optimal use and marketability of the prosthetic knee.
Main Methods:
- A national clinical evaluation involving 46 subjects across 16 VA Medical Facilities.
- Testing of 28 DAV/Seattle Knee units with fluid swing control between May 1992 and May 1993.
- Monitoring subject responses and identifying any product failures or required adjustments.
Main Results:
- A minor issue with the piston shaft end breaking was identified and resolved with a design modification.
- 23 out of 28 fitted subjects completed the 30-day evaluation period.
- 8 subjects continued to use the DAV/Seattle Knee post-evaluation.
Conclusions:
- The DAV/Seattle Knee is a safe and reliable prosthetic device for veterans with above-knee amputations.
- Proper fitting, considering user weight, stump length, and activity level, is crucial for optimal performance.
- The evaluation provided valuable data for product improvement and marketability.