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DYNAMIC DIAGNOSTIC SOCKET-SKIN INTERFACE
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Zafiriou. T. Latrobe University, Australia. Contoyannis. B. REHABTech Australia Stewart M. R.REHABTech Australia |
Stone. J. D. REHABTech Australia Elizabeth Laird,Prosthetics/ Orthotics ( La Trobe University). |
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This project investigated the potential uses of a micro camera mounted on a clear dynamic diagnostic socket. Clear diagnostic sockets have become a frequently used instrument for the assessment of cast modifications in the final stages of fitting a prosthetic socket. In the case of the lower extremity, a diagnostic socket can give a limited subjective pressure map of the socket/skin interface by nature of the skin discolouration under load. More recently diagnostic sockets have been used at the dynamic trial stage in an attempt to provide feedback to the practitioner in both the areas of fit and dynamic function. |
Problems which arise in both situations, static and dynamic, in terms of the assessment of fit. Statically the socket/skin interface can be viewed clearly however the loading pattern is limited. Dynamically the loading pattern is more desirable however the socket/skin pressure interface cannot easily be viewed.
By mounting a video camera onto the prosthesis the frame of reference of the socket/skin interface remains static. The loading pattern changes dynamically as the patient walks. A number of different "lipstick" cameras were mounted onto the prosthesis and assessed in terms of resolution, clarity and field of vision.The signal from the cameras was plugged into a video recorder ensuring the cable did not get in the way of the patient. Telemetry between the camera and video recorder was also trialed. A third method which was not trialed was to mount a small video recorder onto the patient and record the output signal. The first two methods give a real time image as well as the option of recording. In the initial trial the patient did not feel that the camera and mounting influenced his use of the prosthesis. The subjective opinion of the prosthetist involved was that he could clearly detect aspects dynamically that would influence his modification.These aspects could not previously be detected.
The image can be observed in real time, recorded as part of the ongoing clinical information or mixed into a special effects generator to mix the image with that of the patient walking or to colour enhance the image of the socket/skin interface.
