Comparison of function and mobility pre and post prescription of a microprocessor-controlled knee joint

Evaluation of function and mobility is important in determining any improvement with a new prosthesis, and deciding future interventions. The purpose of this study was to assess 21 transfemoral amputees who transitioned from a standard mechanically controlled knee joint to a microprocessor-controlled knee joint, using data collected both in a clinical environment and in the everyday setting using an activity sensor continuously over one week. Thirteen assessments were performed pre and post intervention. Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed with the Gait Profile Score (GPS), Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP), 2 minute walk test (2MWT), L-test, Activity-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, double support measured from temporal spatial parameters and the Functional Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ). The Prosthetic Observational Gait Score (POGS), 10 metre timed walk test (10MTWT), Locomotor Capability Index (LCI-5), activity measurement, maximum walking distance and the majority of the temporal spatial data displayed no significant differences. Few of the differences exceeded the minimal clinically important differences stated in the literature, nonetheless the overall results indicated a general improvement in function and mobility. An analysis of variance test also identified statistically significant (p<0.05) score differences in the measured GPS varying with the type of microprocessor knee prescribed.