Journal CME April 2025, The effects of microprocessor prosthetic knee use in early rehabilitation: A pilot randomized controlled trial-PM R - 2025 - Morgan - The effects of microprocessor prosthetic knee use in early rehabilitation A pilot randomized

PM R - 2025 - Morgan - The effects of microprocessor prosthetic knee use in early rehabilitation A pilot randomized

Pdf Summary

This study examined the effects of microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees (MPKs) versus non-microprocessor knees (NMPKs) in early rehabilitation for individuals with recent unilateral transfemoral amputation. It was a pilot randomized controlled trial designed to assess feasibility and health outcomes over a 3-month period. MPKs are known to enhance safety and mobility through real-time knee control, which could be beneficial during the early stages of rehabilitation. The trial was conducted with 18 participants and observed that those in the MPK group displayed better outcomes in mobility, balance confidence, and reintegration into normal living, although the differences were statistically significant in a limited number of outcomes due to the small sample size.<br /><br />Key findings indicated that MPK users improved more in overall mobility, balance confidence, and daily activity than NMPK users. This aligns with other studies reporting that MPKs enhance functional outcomes in established prosthesis users. Despite these promising results, both groups showed similar fall rates during the trial. This is notable as MPK users exhibited more mobility and activity without an increase in falls, suggesting potential safety benefits.<br /><br />The study faced challenges due to a smaller-than-planned sample size and COVID-19, which affected enrollment and some data collection. Additionally, the relatively brief observation period might have limited the detection of some potential benefits or detriments of MPKs. The study's outcomes are considered exploratory but provide a basis for designing future research. Larger multicenter trials are recommended to further evaluate the impacts of MPKs in early rehabilitation, addressing varied health and quality-of-life outcomes.<br /><br />Overall, the study suggests that MPKs may offer significant rehabilitation benefits by improving safety and mobility, influencing the future clinical prescription for recent transfemoral amputees.

Keywords

microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees

MPKs

non-microprocessor knees

NMPKs

unilateral transfemoral amputation

rehabilitation

mobility

balance confidence

health outcomes

randomized controlled trial