{"title":"CONTEMPORARY AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY, ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS","authors":"Babak Hassan Beygi, M. S. Wong","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42225","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42225","url":null,"abstract":"3D printing is considered as a helpful technology that facilitates innovative assistive technology, orthotics, and prosthetics development. This technology could likely contribute to positive treatment outcomes. It could also mitigate the challenges encountered when using the traditional methods. Our team’s research in the application of 3D printing in prosthetics, orthotics and biomedical technology has shown beneficial results in its use. This article gives a general description on application of CAD/CAM, digitalization and 3d printing in this industry followed by short description of two spinal-related projects conducted in our research team. Technological and clinical challenges on utilization of this technology have been listed. Finally, this manuscript provides recommendation for broader applications and developments of the aforementioned technology through interdisciplinary practices. A glimpse into the future of 3D printing in the healthcare industry shows that this industry is poised to continue having a significant impact in this sector. It should be emphasized that assistive technology, orthotics, and prosthetics require a human touch and connection, and no digital tool or technology can replace such requirements. Indeed, multi-disciplinary collaboration is the key to the success of applications of 3D printing.\u0000Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42225/32491\u0000How To Cite: Hassan Beygi B, Wong M.S. Contemporary and future development of 3D printing technology in the field of assistive technology, orthotics and prosthetics. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.10. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42225\u0000Corresponding Author: M.S. WONG, PhDThe Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.E-Mail: m.s.wong@polyu.edu.hkORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4157-9528","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"2 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-02-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139959387","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"METHODOLOGY TO INVESTIGATE EFFECT OF PROSTHETIC INTERFACE DESIGN ON RESIDUAL LIMB SOFT TISSUE DEFORMATION","authors":"Thomas Arnstein, A. Buis","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.42196","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.42196","url":null,"abstract":"BACKGROUND: Residual limb discomfort and injury is a common experience for people living with lower limb amputation. Frequently, inadequate load distribution between the prosthetic device and the residual limb is the root cause of this issue. To advance our understanding of prosthetic interface fit, tools are needed to evaluate the mechanical interaction at the prosthetic interface, allowing interface designs to be evaluated and optimised.\u0000OBJECTIVES: Present a methodology report designed to facilitate comprehension of the mechanical interaction between the prosthetic interface and the residual limb. As a pilot study, this methodology is used to compare a hands-on and hands-off interface for a single transtibial prosthesis user using secondary Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) data.\u0000METHODOLOGY: MRI data of the residual limb while wearing a prosthetic interface is segmented into a hard tissue and a skin surface model. These models are exported as stereolithography (STL) files. Two methods are used to analyse the interface designs. Firstly, CloudCompare software is used to compute the nearest vertex on the skin surface for every vertex on the compiled internal bony surface for both interface types. Secondly, CloudCompare software is used to compare registered skin surfaces of the residual limb while wearing the hands-on and hands-off interfaces.\u0000FINDINGS: The maximum and minimum nearest distances between the internal bony surface and skin surface were similar between interface types. However, the distribution of nearest distances was different. When comparing the skin surface while wearing both interfaces, where the fit is more compressive can be visualized. For the dataset used in this study, the classic features of a hands-on Patella Tendon Bearing interface and hands-off pressure cast interface could be identified.\u0000CONCLUSION: The methodology presented in this report may give researchers a further tool to better understand how interface designs affect the soft tissues of the residual limb.\u0000Layman's Abstract\u0000If a person loses all or part of their leg because of injury or disease, they may use a replacement limb to help them walk again. The replacement limb is attached to their remaining leg using a rigid shell and flexible liner. Sometimes, the skin, muscles, and other tissues of their remaining leg are damaged while wearing the replacement limb. Often, this is because the replacement limb fits poorly to their remaining leg. In order to design replacement limbs that do not cause injury, a better understanding of replacement limb fit is required. In this study, a method to understand how replacement limbs deform remaining limb skin, muscles, and other tissues, is presented. 3D medical images are taken of a person’s remaining leg while they wear two different types of replacement limbs. These images are processed into 3D models and then analysed to investigate deformation. Firstly, deformation of the remaining leg, caused by the replacement limb, i","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":" 732","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139617619","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Nikolai Dechev, Kelly Knights, Kim Arklie, Michelle Martindale, Michael Peirone
{"title":"ACCESSIBLE PROSTHETIC ARMS: VICTORIA HAND PROJECT AND THE IMPACT OF 3D PRINTING","authors":"Nikolai Dechev, Kelly Knights, Kim Arklie, Michelle Martindale, Michael Peirone","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42142","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42142","url":null,"abstract":"Victoria Hand Project (VHP) is a Canadian charity with a mission to provide 3D printed prosthetic arms to people in-need across the world, by partnering with prosthetic care providers. This article explores the journey of VHP, sharing insights, lessons learned, ongoing directions, and the impact of 3D printing on prosthetic care for people with upper-limb amputation. Benefits such as affordability and customization are explored, as well as the challenges encountered, including quality control and the steep learning curve associated with working in the digital 3D space. Through this article, the potential of 3D printing to continue to transform the field of assistive technology and prosthetic and orthotic applications is underscored, especially when used for collaborative, humanitarian initiatives.\u0000Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42142/32202\u0000How To Cite: Dechev N, Knights K, Arklie K, Martindale M, Peirone M. Accessible prosthetic arms: Victoria Hand Project and the impact of 3D printing. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.9. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42142\u0000Corresponding Author: Nick Dechev, PhDBiomedical Designs and Systems Laboratory, University of Victoria, Victoria, V8P 5C2 Canada.E-Mail: dechev@uvic.caORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7731-0280","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"39 11","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139532132","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"3D PRINTED COSMETIC COVERS FOR LOWER LIMB PROSTHETICS","authors":"K. Efstathiou, Anthony McGarry","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42176","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42176","url":null,"abstract":"Cosmetic covers provide better aesthetic appearance and may facilitate increased acceptance of the prosthesis. Traditionally, cosmetic covers aimed to achieve an aesthetic and realistic appearance; through time, a fresh perspective has developed on cosmetic covers where traditional/realistic covers evolved into a custom-made product, which truly promotes the patient’s personality. The objectives of the study were to gather information from five well-known companies in the cosmetic cover industry (UNYQ, Limb-Art, Alleles, WillowWood and Aqua-Leg), analyse and compare their design elements using the Pugh matrix, and suggest a novel design using the best performing criteria of each design. The overall results of the Pugh matrix revealed the opportunity of a new design with improved design elements mainly in terms of “cover fit/aesthetics”, “ease of attachment” and “practicality”. The novel design had a vast difference in total score from the second-best design, revealing the improvement possibilities such cover design may have in the future. Although the study successfully presented a theoretical novel design, it was based on data found through literature and web resources, making the overall results of the study more objective rather than subjective. Future research is encouraged to be conducted based on a more subjective approach towards cosmetic covers.\u0000Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42176/32350\u0000How To Cite: Efstathiou K, McGarry A. 3D printed cosmetic covers for lower limb prosthetics. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.8. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42176\u0000Corresponding Author: Anthony McGarry, PhDDepartment of Biomedical engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.E-Mail: anthony.mcgarry@strath.ac.ukORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0738-5906","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"7 12","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139439144","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS: HARNESSING THE POTENTIAL OF 3D PRINTING","authors":"Anthony R Gutierrez","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42140","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42140","url":null,"abstract":"This paper explores the transformative impact of 3D printing on Orthotics and Prosthetics, focusing on enhancing patient outcomes and clinical efficiency. Over the past decade, the integration of additive manufacturing has revolutionized device fabrication, particularly in diagnostic socket production, leading to significant time reductions in patient care. This article addresses challenges such as material limitations and the need for equivalent strength to traditional sockets, exploring the use of PETG filaments and advanced printers. It emphasizes the role of digital scanning and model modification technology, highlighting affordable solutions like Structure Sensor Scanners and iPhone-based capture systems in shaping the digital workflow. The importance of a standardized digital workflow in clinical settings is discussed, showcasing reduced practitioner time and improved patient care. The paper concludes by outlining ongoing efforts to enhance patient care through automation and flexible prints. In summary, this paper provides a concise overview of the impactful advancements in Orthotics and Prosthetics through 3D printing, highlighting its potential for improved clinical efficiency and patient outcomes.\u0000Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42140/32199\u0000How To Cite: Gutierrez A.R. Exploring the future of prosthetics and orthotics: harnessing the potential of 3D printing. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.7. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42140\u0000Corresponding Author: Anthony R Gutierrez, CP/LPBionic Prosthetics and Orthotics Group LLC, Merrillville, Indiana, USA.E-Mail: tony@bionicpo.comORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-2215-1750","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"17 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139381894","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"LEVERAGING DIGITAL WORKFLOWS TO TRANSITION THE ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS PROFESSION TOWARD A CLIENT-CENTRIC AND VALUES-BASED CARE MODEL","authors":"C. Hovorka","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42221","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42221","url":null,"abstract":"The orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) profession has a history of responding to market demands in a reactive rather than proactive manner. This has created significant impacts including shrinkage in scope of practice and constraint in remuneration for professional services due to a fee-for-device third party payer system. Rapid changes in technology and healthcare combined with an outdated device-centric reimbursement system are creating unprecedented challenges that threaten sustainability of the O&P profession. Hence, a reassessment of the value of O&P care, and the O&P workflow process is necessary to inform an update to the value proposition and practice model for sustainability. This article reviews key factors contributing to the current state of O&P, and potential solutions involving an update in practitioner competencies, and the care delivery model (from device-centric to client-centric and values-based). Updates could be achieved by leveraging the use of digital workflows that increase efficiencies and enhance the value of clinical outcomes. Eventually, these updates could enable the O&P profession to elevate the value proposition that aligns with its most important stakeholders: client-patients and third-party reimbursement agencies in a rapidly changing technology and healthcare landscape.\u0000Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42221/32301\u0000How To Cite: Hovorka C.F. Leveraging digital workflows to transition the Orthotics and Prosthetics profession toward a client-centric and values-based care model. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.6. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42221\u0000Corresponding Author: Christopher F. Hovorka, PhD, CPO, FAAOPCenter for the Intrepid, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.E-Mail: hovorkac@gmail.comORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7147-3134","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"53 14","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139384747","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"3D PRINTING AND THE EVOLUTION OF PARTIAL HAND PROSTHESES: MY JOURNEY FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE","authors":"Christopher M Baschuk","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42139","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42139","url":null,"abstract":"The world of prosthetics has been undergoing significant changes, with the evolution of materials, design techniques, and manufacturing methodologies converging to redefine the landscape. Central to this narrative is the imperative for a holistic approach, harmonizing the trinity of materials, design, and methodologies to yield optimal outcomes. This balance is especially pivotal for the overlooked yet significant segment of those with partial hand and finger differences. Historically, this demographic has been underserved, with rehabilitation and prosthetic innovations often falling short. The sheer prevalence of partial hand differences underscores the urgency of tailored solutions. Traditional fabrication methods like wet lamination have posed challenges, particularly in aligning and efficiency. The advent of additive manufacturing has been transformative. The case of designing and printing a partial finger socket for Point Designs, LLC's Point Partial finger highlights this paradigm shift. Where conventional techniques demanded hours, digital design and 3D printing have condensed the process to mere minutes, without compromising on quality. This is not merely a win in terms of time efficiency; the implications for the end users are profound, ensuring a more customized and efficient solution. The journey underscores the potential of blending technology and traditional prosthetic knowledge, pointing towards a future where prosthetics align more seamlessly with users' needs. Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42139/32198 How To Cite: Baschuk C.M. 3D printing and the evolution of partial hand prostheses: my journey from theory to practice. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.5. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42139 Corresponding Author: Christopher M Baschuk, MPO, CPO, FAAOP(D)Point Designs, LLC, Bountiful, UT, USA.E-mMail: chris@pointdesignsllc.comORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9895-5897","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"88 13","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139132183","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"3D PRINTED PROSTHESES: THE PATH FROM HYPE TO REALITY","authors":"Jeffrey Erenstone","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42141","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42141","url":null,"abstract":"3D printing has an over forty-year history but has only become popular in the last fifteen years with the expiration of restrictive patents which allowed open access and unfettered innovation by a broad range of technology developers. During the last decade interest in prostheses made by 3D printing has grown in popularity. The interest in devices has followed the Gartner Hype Cycle as 3D printing companies and associated organizations have used popular claims about 3D printed prostheses to increase their own company’s popularity. These claims created unrealistic expectations which outran the early-stage limitations of the technology, causing disillusion. Currently, the industry is moving beyond these limitations and the field seems to be advancing at a sustainable rate. This article provides an understanding of the history of popular misconceptions surrounding the technology. It provides a basis for separating the myth from reality in 3D printing technology so the reader can question the popular preconceived ideas and find the real value. With a greater understanding of the past, one can apply lessons to present technology use and guide the direction of future 3D printing. This paper will also discuss lessons applicable to both high and low-income countries along with providing recommendations for the future development. Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42141/32201 How To Cite: Erenstone J. 3D printed prostheses: the path from hype to reality. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.4. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42141 Corresponding Author: Jeffrey Erenstone, CPOMountain O & P Services, 7 Old Military Road, Lake Placid, NY USA.E-Mail: erenstone@gmail.comORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1015-9616","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":" 13","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139141336","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mia Costa-Parke, Anna Maria Di Lella, Ashley Walker, Lee Verweel, Crystal MacKay
{"title":"PEER SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MAJOR LIMB LOSS: A SCOPING REVIEW","authors":"Mia Costa-Parke, Anna Maria Di Lella, Ashley Walker, Lee Verweel, Crystal MacKay","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.42170","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.42170","url":null,"abstract":"BACKGROUND: Major limb loss can have profound physical and psychosocial implications for individuals, impacting their quality of life and well-being. Despite the effectiveness of peer support in improving outcomes for various chronic conditions, its impact on individuals with major limb loss remains understudied. OBJECTIVE(S): This review aims to explore the existing literature on peer support for individuals with major limb loss. Specifically, exploring how the literature defines peer support; examining its implementation, identifying outcomes measured in peer support interventions, assessing the benefits for individuals with major limb loss, and identifying barriers associated with peer support provision. STUDY DESIGN: This review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework, analysing relevant literature to identify evidence, definitions, and key factors related to peer support for individuals with major limb loss. METHODOLOGY: A comprehensive search in January 2023 utilized databases: MEDLINE, PsychInfo, Embase, and CINAHL. After a two-phase screening process, articles meeting specific criteria were included. Thematic and descriptive numerical analyses were applied to the extracted data. FINDINGS: Twenty-two articles were reviewed. Peer support was described as an opportunity to provide education, advice, and encouragement between individuals with lived experiences. Across the two intervention-based studies investigating peer support programs, outcome measures included physical, psychological, social, and quality of life. Qualitative studies described perceived benefits as improved psychosocial well-being and the opportunity to exchange knowledge. Perceived barriers included a lack of formal training and male-dominated groups, which deterred individuals with amputation from participating. CONCLUSION: The evidence from the findings of the review sheds light on the current understanding of peer support for individuals with amputation. Due to the limited number of studies available, future research is necessary to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of peer support interventions tailored to this population. Layman's Abstract Peer support offers a supportive relationship between individuals who have shared experiences with a disease or condition. While proven to enhance outcomes for individuals with chronic diseases, its impact on individuals with limb amputations is not well understood. The goal of this review was to explore how peer support is defined, measured, and implemented in individuals with amputation. This project summarized information from twenty-two peer-reviewed articles collected from multiple scientific databases. The benefits of peer support included improved psychosocial well-being and knowledge exchange, while identified barriers highlighted challenges such as a lack of formal training and gender imbalances within support groups. While this review sheds light on the positive aspects of peer support for individuals","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"61 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139151901","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yusuke Miyata, Kazuhiko Sasaki, Gary Guerra, Woratee Dacharux, Pilipda Chaiwan
{"title":"EVALUATING FEASIBILITY AND DURABILITY OF THE AERO PROSTHETIC LINER IN TRANSTIBIAL PROSTHETIC USERS","authors":"Yusuke Miyata, Kazuhiko Sasaki, Gary Guerra, Woratee Dacharux, Pilipda Chaiwan","doi":"10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.41865","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i1.41865","url":null,"abstract":"BACKGROUND: The choice of prosthetic socket interface material significantly affects user comfort and satisfaction. The Affordable Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate Roll-On (AERO) liner was created with the aim of improving functionality and streamlining the wearing process for users. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to comprehensively assess user satisfaction, comfort, and durability of the AERO liner and compare it with the common soft Pe-Lite liner. METHODOLOGY: Fourteen individuals with transtibial amputation participated in this three-month randomized crossover trial study. The Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ), Expanded Socket Comfort Score (ESCS), and liner thickness measurements were used to comprehensively compare the AERO and Pe-Lite liner. FINDINGS: The AERO liner demonstrated notable improvements in prosthetic comfort and functionality over Pe-Lite liner. After three months use, there was a significant reduction in reported frustration with the AERO liner (p=0.023, r=0.604) in the PEQ subscale. Specific aspects, such as walking with the prosthesis (p=0.030, r=0.601) and odor perception (p=0.024, d=0.579), favored the use of the AERO liner. The expanded socket comfort score (ESCS) revealed significant superiority for the AERO liner “at best” (p=0.04) and “on average” (p=0.02) after one and three months, respectively. Liner thickness analysis showed significant reductions at the mid-patellar tendon location for the AERO liner at one (0.57±0.48) and three months (0.90±0.69, p=0.01) and in the posterior region after three months (0.63±0.64, p=0.05). CONCLUSION: Our study highlights the potential advantages of the AERO liner in enhancing comfort and satisfaction. Yet, durability and thinning of the liner when compared to Pe-Lite may be a concern which may eventually affect socket fit. These findings contribute to ongoing efforts to optimize prosthetic interventions and improve the quality of life of individuals with lower limb prosthesis in resource-limited environments. Layman's Abstract Comfort and satisfaction are essential for people using prosthetics. The socket interface material, which encompasses the limb, is crucial for comfort and suspension of the prosthesis on the limb. In resource-limited environments, people mainly use an interface material called Pe-Lite in their prosthetic sockets. However, there is an ongoing debate regarding its comfort and suitability for the residual limb. We aimed to evaluate an alternative material to determine if it was more comfortable and functional than Pe-Lite for these individuals. We invited fourteen people with transtibial amputations to participate in this study. They used a traditional prosthetic design and were provided both Pe-Lite and AERO liners. We asked them about their experiences and measured the various aspects of their treatment. The results were promising. People who used the AERO liner reported much less frustration after three months. They felt an improvement in walking, an","PeriodicalId":503370,"journal":{"name":"CANADIAN PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS JOURNAL","volume":"98 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-12-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139154983","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}