TITLE:
A New Implant for Transfemoral Amputation: Improved Gait and Comfort
AUTHORS:
Mathieu Assal, Halah Kutaish, Richard Stern, Alice Bonnefoy-Mazure, Antoine Acker, Axel Gamulin, Stephane Stephane, Gorki Carmona, Alain Lacraz
KEYWORDS:
Above Knee Amputation, Transfemoral Amputation, Gritti-Stokes, Weight-Bearing End-Cap
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Orthopedics,
Vol.11 No.6,
June
29,
2021
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Transfemoral amputation results in a prosthesis which bears weight on the ischium. Gait
disturbance, lack of an end-bearing stump and discomfort in the groin from the
socket even while sitting, are important issues. Methods: This is a
pilot report of an ongoing randomized blind clinical trial of a new
intramedullary implant post transfemoral amputation. Here, we describe a single case illustrating the surgical technique and clinical outcome of
a dysfunctional post-traumatic transfemoral
amputation addressed with this implant. Clinical gait analysis, SF-12 and VAS were
assessed pre- and post-intervention at 6 months of follow-up. Results: An improved stump control is
accomplished by means of myoplasty and myodesis through an end-cap. Stride
width improved from 0.21 m pre-op to 0.13 m post-op, and more symmetrical stride length
(△0.21 m pre-op vs. △0.06 m post-op) was noted, indicating improved gait quality
and stability. Gait velocity increased (0.51 ± 0.04 m/s pre-op vs. 0.64 ± 0.02 m/s post-op). Conclusion: This technique reveals
improvements in gait parameters in a transfemoral amputee treated with a new
procedure. Improved prosthesis control, sitting comfort, greater hip range of
motion, better gait stability, and enhanced walking abilities were noted.