Functional outcomes and user preferences of individuals with transfemoral amputations using two types of knee joints in under-resourced settings

Background: Information relating to prosthetic performance can inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes in under-resourced countries.

Objectives: The main goal of this study was to compare functional outcomes and user preferences of individuals with transfemoral amputations using common types of knee joints in an under-resourced country.

Study design: Prospective, longitudinal, before and after trial.

Methods: Twenty individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputations from a center in Cambodia transitioned from a commonly used single-axis manually locking knee International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to a more advanced multiaxis knee joint with stance control All-Terrain Knee (ATK). Data were collected for the ICRC knee joint and the ATK immediately after fitting, after acclimation, and as part of a long-term follow-up. A timed walk test assessed walking distance and efficiency. Mobility and user-preferences were evaluated through questionnaires.

Results: Distance during the timed walk test was significantly higher for the ATK compared with ICRC (P < 0.001), with functional gains retained at follow-up. No differences were found for gait efficiency and the mobility questionnaires. All participants, except one, preferred the ATK prosthesis. Benefits included greater knee stability and fewer perceived knee collapses; however, some disliked the appearance of the ATK.

Conclusions: The findings suggest positive outcomes with prosthetic services in under-resourced regions and the ICRC system, as well as the potential for improved functional outcomes with more advanced multiaxis knee components.