Article

Despite the evidence for improved safety and function of
microprocessor stance and swing-controlled prosthetic knees,
non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees are still standard of care for
persons with transfemoral amputations in most countries. Limited feature
microprocessor-control enhancement of such knees could stand to significantly
improve patient outcomes. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate gait speed, balance, and fall
reduction benefits of the new 3E80 default stance hydraulic knee compared to
standard non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees. STUDY DESIGN:
Comparative within-subject clinical study. METHODS: A total of 13 young,
high-functioning community ambulators with a transfemoral amputation underwent
assessment of performance-based (e.g. 2-min walk test, timed ramp/stair tests)
and self-reported (e.g. falls, Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scale,
Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire question #1, Satisfaction with the
Prosthesis) outcome measures for their non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic
knees and again after 8 weeks of accommodation to the 3E80
microprocessor-enhanced knee. RESULTS: Self-reported falls significantly declined
77% ( p = .04), Activities-Specific Balance Confidence scores improved 12 points
( p = .005), 2-min walk test walking distance increased 20 m on level ( p = .01)
and uneven ( p = .045) terrain, and patient satisfaction significantly improved (
p < .01) when using the 3E80 knee. Slope and stair ambulation performance did not
differ between knee conditions. CONCLUSION: The 3E80 knee reduced self-reported
fall incidents and improved balance confidence. Walking performance on both level
and uneven terrains also improved compared to non-microprocessor-controlled
prosthetic knees. Subjects' satisfaction was significantly higher than with their
previous non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees. The 3E80 may be
considered a prosthetic option for improving gait performance, balance
confidence, and safety in highly active amputees. Clinical relevance This study
compared performance-based and self-reported outcome measures when using
non-microprocessor and a new microprocessor-enhanced, default stance rotary
hydraulic knee. The results inform rehabilitation professionals about the
functional benefits of a limited-feature, microprocessor-enhanced hydraulic
prosthetic knee over standard non-microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees.

Langue : ANGLAIS