Novel Lower-Limb Prostheses: Comparing Adherence, Perspiration, and Residual Limb Skin Health in a Hot, Humid Environment and During Activities of Daily Living
Abstract
Three prostheses were compared to determine which was most effective at maintaining a secure adherence during profuse perspiration. Skin health and comfort were also measured. The three study prostheses were: a prosthesis with a battery and body weight activated pump that discretely expelled perspiration, a prosthesis with a perforated liner to allow perspiration to seep away from the skin, and the participants as-prescribed prosthesis. Twenty individuals with a lower limb amputation walked on a treadmill for 30-minutes in a climate chamber (35 degrees C and 50% relative humidity) after wearing each study prosthesis for two weeks. Eight completed all procedures. The COVID-19 pandemic hampered study enrollment. The prosthesis with a perspiration expelling pump provided the most secure adherence while the prosthesis with a perforated liner accumulated the least perspiration. Simply wearing a prosthesis resulted in very dry residual limb skin, but barrier function was not compromised. All three study prostheses were reasonably comfortable to wear.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1225084
Entities
People
- Glenn K. Klute
Organizations
- Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research