Article

The objectives of this study were to compare three a priori alignment
methods and evaluate them based on initial gait quality and further alignment
changes required to optimize gait. A priori alignment is requisite for monolimbs,
transtibial prostheses in which the socket and pylon are made from one piece of
plastic, because monolimbs have no alignment adjustability. METHOD: The three
methods investigated were traditional bench alignment (TRAD), vertical alignment
axis (VAA) and anatomical based alignment (ABA). Endoskeletal components were
utilized for the study, rather than monolimbs, so that alignment could be
experimentally manipulated. Three endoskeletal prostheses were aligned, one
according to each a priori method, for each of seven subjects. Gait and alignment
data were captured, dynamic alignment was performed to optimize gait, and data
were captured again. RESULTS: VAA and TRAD methods required less change compared
to ABA in socket flexion angle. Looking at subjects individually, VAA produced a
better alignment and better gait for the greatest number of subjects.
CONCLUSIONS: A new refined method of a priori alignment is proposed based on the
results of this study, and is applicable for a priori alignment of monolimbs or
any type of transtibial prosthesis.

Langue : ANGLAIS