Article

The effectiveness of microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joints
(MPKs) has been assessed using a variety of outcome measures in a variety of
health and health-related domains. However, if the patient is to receive a
prosthetic knee joint that enables him to function optimally in daily life, it is
vital that the clinician has adequate information about the effects of that
particular component on all aspects of persons' functioning. Especially
information concerning activities and participation is of high importance, as
this component of functioning closely describes the person's ability to function
with the prosthesis in daily life. The present study aimed to review the outcome
measures that have been utilized to assess the effects of
microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee joints (MPK), in comparison with
mechanically controlled prosthetic knee joints, and aimed to classify these
measures according to the components and categories of functioning defined by the
International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).
Subsequently, the gaps in the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of
MPKs were determined. METHODS: A systematic literature search in 6 databases
(i.e. PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline and PsychInfo) identified
scientific studies that compared the effects of using MPKs with mechanically
controlled prosthetic knee joints on persons' functioning. The outcome measures
that have been utilized in those studies were extracted and categorized according
to the ICF framework. Also, a descriptive analysis regarding all studies has been
performed. RESULTS: A total of 37 studies and 72 outcome measures have been
identified. The majority (67%) of the outcome measures that described the effects
of using an MPK on persons' actual performance with the prosthesis covered the
ICF body functions component. Only 31% of the measures on persons' actual
performance investigated how an MPK may affect performance in daily life.
Research also typically focused on young, fit and active persons. CONCLUSIONS:
Scientifically valid evidence regarding the performance of persons with an MPK in
everyday life is limited. Future research should specifically focus on activities
and participation to increase the understanding of the possible functional added
value of MPKs.

Langue : ANGLAIS

Tiré à part : OUI