Article

Previous studies have shown low end-user acceptance of a hip disarticulation
style prosthesis and that the limitations of such prostheses, including poor gait
pattern, socket discomfort, weight of the prosthesis, loss of mobility,
instability and high energy consumption are a contributing factor. This study was
initiated to determine if a new style of prosthetic hip joint could help to
overcome some of the limitations concerning the gait pattern. The present study
analyzed the gait pattern of six hip disarticulation amputee subjects. The
objective was to compare two different prosthetic hip joints, both from Otto Bock
HealthCare: The new Helix(3D) and the 7E7, which is based on the Canadian model
proposed by McLaurin (1954). Kinematics and kinetics were recorded by an
optoelectronic camera system with six CCD cameras and two force plates. During
weight acceptance, the Helix(3D) extends considerably slower and reaches full
extension later than the 7E7. The increased range of pelvic tilt observed with
hip disarticulation amputees is significantly reduced (by 5 +/- 3 degrees) when
using the Helix(3D) Hip Joint. In addition, this system showed increased stance
phase knee joint flexion as well as increased maximum swing phase knee flexion
angles compared to the 7E7. These motion analysis results show that the Helix(3D)
Hip Joint can reduce gait abnormalities compared to the uniplanar design of the
7E7 hip joint.

Langue : ANGLAIS