What is the purpose of the study? Researchers at the University of Maryland are investigating the benefits of osseointegration in high-functioning above-knee prosthesis users by comparing walking biomechanics of users with vs. without osseointegration. For an effective comparison, the research team hopes to recruit 24 participants total, 12 individuals with osseointegration and 12 users of socket-based prostheses.
Why is this study important? Osseointegration has been shown to improve walking ability in individuals who had low-function with prior use of a socket-based prosthesis. However, there is no evidence on the benefits of osseointegration for higher-functioning prosthesis users. The data from this study will help inform the prescriptive practices of osseointegration as it becomes a more available treatment option for limb loss.
To be eligible for participation, you must:
- Be between 18-65 years of age
- Have unilateral (single-sided) above-knee limb loss (either osseointegrated or socket-based)
- Be at least 18-months past your most recent residual limb surgery (amputation or revision)
- Be K-Level 3 or above
- Be able to walk unassisted with no aids other than a prosthesis
What is required to participate? Participation requires travel to the University of Maryland campus, located in College Park, Maryland. During the study visit you will be asked to walk on a treadmill while wearing a mask that measures your breathing and calculates your energy expenditure. You will then walk back and forth on level ground while wearing reflective markers that are tracked by motion capture camera system. Lastly, you will complete surveys on your health and mobility. The total distance walked is approximately one mile, over an approximate two-hour study duration.
Is there compensation? All participants will be compensated $500. Participation that requires an overnight stay will have hotel covered. We can potentially cover other travel costs (some limitations apply).
What happens next? For more information and to determine eligibility, please contact Dr. Ross Miller, University of Maryland, Department of Kinesiology (rosshm@umd.edu).