Comparison of á priori alignment techniques for transtibial prostheses in the developing world - pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate three alignment systems based on two alignment theories that can be utilized in the fabrication of monolimb prostheses that have acceptable alignment. A second goal was to assess the feasibility of technology transfer for providing prosthetic services to remote areas of landmine-affected countries.


METHODS
Five prosthetists and five healthy transtibial amputees participated in the study. Each prosthetist was trained and then used each of the three systems to capture alignment measurements for one subject. Three monolimbs identified as X, Y and Z were fabricated for each subject and assessed during clinical static and dynamic gait conditions. Training materials and methods were also evaluated.


RESULTS
All three systems captured acceptable alignments fairly well, although the two systems that incorporated weight-bearing into the alignment process had slightly better outcomes. Each system has its own advantages in terms of ease of use, required equipment, and ease of technology transfer.


CONCLUSIONS
All three systems have the potential for application in outreach prosthetic services and warrant continued evaluation. Minor changes need to be incorporated into the alignment systems and procedures to make them easier to use and more effective.
Reisinger
Kim D
KD
Center for International Rehabilitation, Ontario, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA. engineeringsupport@cirnetwork.org
Casanova
Hector
H
Wu
Yeongchi
Y
Moorer
Celene
C
D000328:Adult; D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001186:Artificial Limbs; D001753:Blast Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation; D003363:Cost Control; D003906:Developing Countries; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005684:Gait; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D018581:Technology Transfer; D014481:United States