An Investigation of Anticipated Comfort Level Trend Differences Between the Hands-on Patellar-Tendon Bearing (PTB) and Hands-off Hydrocast Transtibial Prosthetic Sockets

Two independent convenience samples of unilateral adult amputees (N=36), previously successful wearers of transtibial prostheses with either Patellar Tendon Bearing (PTB) or Total Surface Bearing (TSB) sockets were refitted with new prostheses with sockets of either patellar tendon bearing or Hydrocast Total Surface Bearing (HCTSB) design (NPTB = 21, NHCTSB = 21). The socket type of the new prostheses did not necessarily repeat that of the previous fittings. Upon delivery of the prostheses and one month thereafter the subjects' perception of socket comfort was measured with Socket Comfort Score (SCS) instrument. The data then were statistically analysed with the following results. Comfort levels of the PTB sockets were higher on both measures. Between the initial and the final comfort level assessments, comfort levels increased for the PTB group and decreased for the HCTSB group. Period of Time since Amputation variable exhibited a significant positive relationship with the initial socket comfort level in the PTB group. In both the PTB and HCTSB groups, as well as in the total sample, the initial and final socket comfort levels were higher for subjects whose socket types had not changed. Fox Commercial Institutional Review Board ethical approval number 080516-001.