Researchers in France observed the performance of active C-LEG users in terms of locomotor ability and activities, satisfaction, and quality of life in people with transfemoral amputations after six months of wearing the prosthesis in real-life conditions. The results indicated that the participants showed improved function, satisfaction, and physical quality of life after using the C-LEG compared with their previous prostheses.
The multicenter observational study investigated locomotor ability using the Locomotor Capability Index 5 (LCI-5); satisfaction using the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Device 2.0 (QUEST 2.0); and quality of life with the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36). They collected data at the beginning (T0) and end (T1) of the C-LEG test period and at six months (T2) after the confirmed prescription of the C-LEG. Information was also collected on the use of walking aids, daily wear of the prosthesis, falls, and adverse events.
The researchers enrolled 102 participants; 81 were assessed at T1 (62 had a previous prosthesis) and 56 were followed up with after six months (45 had a previous prosthesis). For participants who had previously been fitted with a different prosthetic knee, which was mechanical in almost all cases, the use of C-LEG significantly improved locomotor ability (LCI-5 52.6 versus 46.7), satisfaction (QUEST score 4.6 versus 3.7), and physical quality of life (SF-36 physical component summary score 51.1 versus 45.3). In addition, daily use of the prosthesis was higher and use of walking aids and frequency of falls were lower than during the previous period.
The study was published in the Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.
