The effect of microprocessor-controlled prostheses on walking pattern and energy consumption in above-the-knee amputees

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate microprocessor-controlled (MIC) and non-microprocessor-controlled (non-MIC) prostheses in above-the-knee amputees in terms of energy consumption and gait pattern. Patients and methods: Between June 2018 and February 2019, a total of 34 unilateral transfemoral male amputee patients (mean age: 40.6±13.2 years; range, 19 to 65 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. The patients were divided into two groups as Group 1 (n=17) using an MIC knee unit prosthesis and Group 2 (n=17) using a mechanical (n=5), pneumatic (n=8), or hydraulically (n=4) controlled knee unit prosthesis. Outcome measurements included three-dimensional gait analysis, Locomotor Capabilities Index-5 (LCI-5), exercise tolerance test, Satisfaction with Prosthesis Questionnaire (SAT-PRO), Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey Questionnaire, and 6-min walk test (6MWT). Results: In the MIC prosthesis group, amputated side walking speed (p=0.007), intact side walking speed (p=0.020), amputated side stride length (p=0.008), and amputated side single support phase duration (p=0.049) were significantly higher, while amputated side stride time (p=0.029) was significantly lower compared to the non-MIC prosthesis group. Energy consumption value was significantly lower in the MIC prosthesis group (p=0.005). The MIC prostheses were found to provide a significant improvement in physical health component compared to non-MIC prostheses (p<0.05). Satisfaction with the current prosthesis was significantly higher in the MIC prosthesis group (p=0.002). The gait capacity was found to be significantly higher in the MIC prosthesis group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Our study results suggest that MIC prostheses should be used more widely in the rehabilitation process and daily lives of above-the-knee amputees.