Article

This study aimed to compare the effects of different suspension
methods on the interface stress inside the prosthetic sockets of transtibial
amputees when negotiating ramps and stairs. DESIGN: Three transtibial prostheses,
with a pin/lock system, a Seal-In system, and a magnetic suspension system, were
created for the participants in a prospective study. Interface stress was
measured as the peak pressure by using the F-socket transducers during stairs and
ramp negotiation. RESULTS: Twelve individuals with transtibial amputation managed
to complete the experiments. During the stair ascent and descent, the greatest
peak pressure was observed in the prosthesis with the Seal-In system. The
magnetic prosthetic suspension system caused significantly different peak
pressure at the anterior proximal region compared with the pin/lock (P = 0.022)
and Seal-In (P = 0.001) during the stair ascent. It was also observed during the
stair descent and ramp negotiation. CONCLUSIONS: The prostheses exhibited varying
pressure profiles during the stair and ramp ascent. The prostheses with the
pin/lock and magnetic suspension systems exhibited lower peak pressures compared
with the Seal-In system. The intrasystem pressure distribution at the anterior
and posterior regions of the residual limb was fairly homogenous during the stair
and ramp ascent and descent. Nevertheless, the intrasystem pressure mapping
revealed a significant difference among the suspension types, particularly at the
anterior and posterior sensor sites.

Langue : ANGLAIS