The effect of microprocessor controlled exo-prosthetic knees on limited community ambulators: systematic review and meta-analysis
A. Hahn, Simon Bueschges, Melanie Prager, Andreas Kannenberg
Abstract
PURPOSE: The clinical benefits of microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees (MPKs) in community ambulators have been well-established. A systematic review in limited community ambulators published in 2014 found benefits in safety, performance-based, and patient-reported outcomes. This work updates the previous analysis to the current state of the published evidence. METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of MPKs in limited community ambulators. RESULTS: =0%]). Other outcomes exhibited trends in favor of MPK use or remained insensitive. No outcome was identified favoring non-MPKs. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that MPKs may be considered a valuable therapeutic option in limited community ambulators with a transfemoral amputation.Implications for rehabilitationAbove knee amputees may be treated with a large variety of artificial exo-prosthetic knee components.Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees have proven to be advantageous and cost effective for community ambulators.The current analysis shows similar effects in safety, mobility, and patient perception also for limited community ambulators.Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees are a viable therapeutic option for limited community ambulators.