The effects of microprocessor prosthetic knee use in patients with above the knee amputation

Recent research led by Affiliate Associate Professor Sara Morgan from the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, compared microprocessor-controlled knees and non-microprocessor knees in individuals with recent above-the-knee amputation during early rehabilitation.

Although the sample size was small due to limited enrollment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study showed much possibility that microprocessor-controlled knees can be useful in early rehabilitation. Patients showed significantly higher mobility, balance confidence, and return to normal living scores than while using non-microprocessor knees. In three months, out of 18 participants who enrolled in the study, 15 patients completed the pilot randomized controlled study.

Along with Dr. Morgan, the study team included Professor Janna Friedly, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor Andrew  Humbert PhD, and Professor Brian Hafner PhD, as well as Rachael Rosen, a PhD in Rehabilitation Science student and Ian Nelson, a former research coordinator, all from the University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. The study is online now in National Library of Medicine.