Article

This study investigated a low-cost and low-skill dependent pressure casting
technique (PCAST) to fabricate and fit transtibial (TT) prosthetic sockets in a
developing country. Thirteen adult volunteers (average age 47 yr) with unilateral
TT amputation participated. After fitting, five participants were lost to
follow-up (four rejected the prosthesis and one died). The eight remaining
participants used the prosthesis for an average of 167 +/- 1 d and indicated
regular use throughout this period. Success was evaluated by measures of
satisfaction (Satisfaction with Prosthesis Questionnaire [SATPRO]), physical
function, and gait recorded after fitting and following the usage period. SATPRO
results showed high levels of satisfaction on both occasions. After the usage
period, the timed up-and-go and six-minute walk performances increased by 1.7 +/-
2.0 s and 60 +/- 29 m (p = 0.001), respectively, whereas gait speed, cadence,
step and stride length, support base, and percent gait cycle times remained
unchanged. The results show that a TT PCAST socket (with some minor
modifications) was successfully fitted to eight of the participants (success rate
of 62%). It is reasonable to conclude that this technique may assist people with
TT amputation in a developing country where there is a lack of trained personnel.
Importantly, this technique may reduce TT prosthetic costs and increase fitting
opportunity in a developing country.

Langue : ANGLAIS