Article

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of two types of microprocessor-controlled
prosthetic knee joints (MPKs) on perceived performance and everyday life activity
level. SUBJECTS: Thirty persons with a
unilateral above-knee amputation or knee disarticulation classified as Medicare
Functional Classification Level-2. METHODS: Participants were measured in 3
conditions, i.e. using a mechanically controlled prosthesis, an MPK featuring a
microprocessor-controlled stance and swing phase (MPKA), and an MPK featuring a
microprocessor-controlled stance phase (MPKB). Subjects' perceived performance
regarding prosthesis use was measured with the Prosthesis Evaluation
Questionnaire. Subjects' activity level was quantified using accelerometry. As
high within-group variability regarding subjects' functional performance was
expected to impede detection of possible effects of an MPK, data were analysed
for the total group and for 3 subgroups of participants. RESULTS: Participants'
perception regarding ambulation, residual limb health, utility, and satisfaction
with walking were significantly higher in the MPKA condition compared with the
mechanical knee joint condition. Participants' activity level was similar in all
knee joint conditions. CONCLUSION: Although Medicare Functional Classification
Level-2 amputees report benefitting in terms of their performance from using an
MPK, this is not reflected in their actual daily activity level after one week of
using an MPK.

Langue : ANGLAIS