Multiaxis Knee Proves Better Than Single-axis in Less Resourced Countries

A prospective, longitudinal study aimed to compare functional outcomes and user preferences of individuals with transfemoral amputations using common types of knee joints in less resourced countries.

Twenty individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputations from a center in Cambodia transitioned from a commonly used International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) single-axis manually locking knee to a more advanced multiaxis knee joint with stance control all-terrain knee (ATK).

Data was 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 of the study showed that distance during the timed walk test was significantly higher for the ATK compared with the ICRC knee, with functional gains retained at follow-up. No differences were found for gait efficiency and the mobility questionnaires, the study found. Nineteen participants preferred the ATK prosthesis. Benefits included greater knee stability and fewer perceived knee collapses; however, some disliked the appearance of the ATK.

The study, "Functional outcomes and user preferences of individuals with transfemoral amputations using two types of knee joints in under-resourced settings" published in Prosthetics & Orthotics International.