Quantifying the improvement in perceived quality of life after prescription of microprocessor knees

BACKGROUND It is assumed that a micro-processor knee (MPK) improves the quality of life of a user when compared to a nonMPK. Existing research generally focuses on objective outcome measures. Using both subjective and objective outcome measures this study covers multiple aspects of daily life to quantify the change in functional ability of a prosthetic user. AIM To quantify the anecdotal evidence that MPKs improve quality of life by analysing data collected during routine care of amputees in the UK. METHOD This study is a retrospective analysis of data that was collected during the routine trial protocol for patients who had been prescribed an MPK prosthesis at a hospital in the UK. Patients were included for trial if they met eligibility criteria set out by NHS England. Each patient completed multiple outcome measures including the PEQ and six-minute walk test as a baseline using their current prosthesis, 4 weeks after supply of the MPK, and 6 months after supply. The data from these outcome measures was then analysed for change over time. RESULTS 27 patients were included in the final analysis. The mean reduction in reported trips and stumbles was 90% during the first 4 weeks using an MPK, and this improvement was maintained at the 6-month outcome measures (Table 1). Statistically significant (p<0.05) improvements in the 6MWT and TUG test were also made and maintained throughout the study period. The average self-reported quality of life improved significantly in the Reintegration to Normal Living Index, and self-perceived well-being improved in over 90% of patients. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION An MPK is beneficial to patients in improving physical function but also in improving psychological well-being. With results from the PHQ-9, 4 of the 5 patients who were classed as depressed at baseline showed an improvement to a level at which they would no longer be classed as depressed. REFERENCES [1] NHS England. Clinical Commissioning Policy: Microprocessor controlled prosthetic knees. 2016. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Prosthetic department at Sheffield Teaching Hospital.