Conventional versus microchip controlled pneumatic swing phase control for trans-femoral amputees: user's verdict

A questionnaire survey of 22 selected transfemoral amputees who were switched from pneumatic swing phase control knee joints (PSPC) to microprocessor controlled intelligent knee joints (IP) is presented. On overall rating all respondents considered the IP to be an improvement or a great improvement compared to the PSPC and none decided to revert back or wished to use their previous PSPC prosthesis on a regular basis. However the IP was not rated to be superior in every area of the questionnaire. Walking at different speeds, walking further, reduction of energy consumption were the main areas where subjective improvements were perceived by the amputees themselves. It is strongly believed that patients' own views should be an important and integral part of the evaluation of new prosthetic technology.