A prosthetic socket that fits properly is crucial for efficient and comfortable use of a prosthesis. To attain the best chances of a good fit, the characteristics of the residuum need to be captured as accurately as possible during the initial “shape capture” stage. Shape-capture methods can be grouped into hands-on, hands-off, and computer-aided design categories.
A systematic review published July 31 in Sage Journals examined the influences and trends of shape-capture methods on the outcomes of quality, comfort of user, and clinical efficiency in the population of transtibial prosthesis users. Databases and relevant journals were searched as part of the review, and 22 papers were evaluated. Eight papers evaluated hands-on and hands-off methods, two evaluated computer-aided design, and 12 evaluated measurement systems used with shape capture. No papers relating to clinical efficiency were found.
The review’s authors found that overall evidence was weak in suggesting that effects on outcomes were due to the sole influences of shape capture. However, the studies suggested that hands-on methods are dependent on a prosthetist’s skill. Hands-off methods, although repeatable, might still require experience to attain a good fit. Computer-aided design studies were mostly done on theoretical models. The review found that shape-capture measurements require more consistent “gold standards,” the relation between socket fit and comfort is still unclear, and more research is required in each area.
