Design and Fabrication a Pneumatic Suspension System in Transtibial Supracondylar Prosthesis and its Effect on Residual Limb Pistoning

Abstract

Introduction: Transtibial amputation is the most common amputation in lower limbs. Volume loss of residual limb occurs during daily use of prostheses, which results in pistoning between residual limb and prosthetic socket. The goal of this study was to design and fabricate a pneumatic suspension system in transtibial supracondylar prostheses and to evaluate its effect on residual limb pistoning. Material and Methods: Five unilateral transtibial amputees were participated in this study. After designing and fabricating pneumatic suspension system, its effect on residual limb pistoning was evaluated using photographic method in five static stages including full weight bearing, semi weight bearing, non-weight bearing, 30 N and 50 N loads. Results: Residual limb pistoning was reduced using pneumatic suspension system during non- weight bearing, 30 N and 50 N static loading. Conclusion: The use of pneumatic suspension system would reduce pistoning in supracondylar transtibial prostheses.

Keywords

• Transtibial supracondylar prostheses
• Prosthetic suspension
• Pistoning (vertical movement)