Longitudinale piloot studie van het effect van mechatronische knieën bij amputaties onderste lidmaat naar functie, activiteiten dagelijks leven en kwaliteit van leven

Abstract

Longitudinal pilot study of the effect of mechatronic knees in lower limb amputations on function, activities of daily living and quality of life Introduction: Individuals with an above the knee amputation have difficulties with mobility, increased risk of falling, limitations in activities of daily living (ADL) and reduced quality of life. A prosthetic knee is an essential part of the equipment. There are mechanical and mechatronic (MPK) prosthetic knees. The effect of an MPK on function, ADL and quality of life is investigated. Methodology: This is a longitudinal follow-up design comparing results between an initial test with a non-MPK (T0), an MPK (T1) and after six months with MPK (T2). Inclusion criteria is recently obtaining reimbursement for an MCK. At all measurement time points, a walking test and timed up and go (TUG) test were performed and the PEQ-MS (prosthetic evaluation questionnaire, mobility scale) and ABC (activities-specific balance confidence) questionnaires were completed. These tests are administered at the 3 measurement time points (T0, T1 and T2). Data are modelled with a linear mixed model. Results: Eight subjects are included in the study. In the comparison between T1 and T2, we see the following. Walking distance and speed are better on T2 than T1. There is no significant difference between the two groups regarding the TUG and the ABC questionnaire. At T2, a lower score is seen on the PEQ-MS questionnaire. In the comparison between T0 and T2, we see the following. The TUG, walk test and ABC questionnaire are significantly better at T2. Regarding the PEQ-MS questionnaire, there is a tendency toward a better score at T2. The number of falls is significantly lower on T1 and T2 compared to T0. Discussion: Overall, the previously described positive effects and trends of mechatronic prosthetic knees are confirmed in this small study, both on function and activities of daily living. Both performance-based measurements and patient-reported outcome parameters were used. No strong and definitive statements can be made based on a small sample size such as this one. Nevertheless, there are interesting results that may be useful for further research.