Loading capacity of dynamic knee spacers: a comparison between hand-moulded and COPAL spacers.

Background: The two-stage revision protocol represents the current gold standard for treating infected total knee replacement implants. Allowing early mobility with weight-bearing between staged procedures will enable early restoration to knee function. So, the mechanical performance of knee spacers is a key issue.

An Efficient Modelling-Simulation-Analysis Workflow to Investigate Stump-Socket Interaction Using Patient-Specific, Three-Dimensional, Continuum-Mechanical, Finite Element Residual Limb Models.

The lack of an efficient modelling-simulation-analysis workflow for creating and utilising detailed subject-specific computational models is one of the key reasons why simulation-based approaches for analysing socket-stump interaction have not yet been successfully established. Herein, we propose a novel and efficient modelling-simulation-analysis workflow that uses commercial software for generating a detailed subject-specific, three-dimensional finite element model of an entire residual limb from Diffusion Tensor MRI images in <20 min. Moreover, to complete the modelling-simulation-analysis workflow, the generated subject-specific residual limb model is used within an implicit dynamic FE simulation of bipedal stance to predict the potential sites of deep tissue injury.

Exploring the Use of Non-Image-Based Ultrasound to Detect the Position of the Residual Femur within a Stump.

A satisfactorily fitted socket interacts dynamically with the stump in order to support body weight, transmit load effectively, enhance dynamic stability, and enable the control and stabilization of the residual limb. The internal dynamics occurring within a socket is important in determining optimal fit. Many measurement and imaging techniques, such as X-rays, have been utilized to investigate the movement of the residual femur within the stump during gait.

The use of collision detection to infer multi-camera calibration quality.

Optical motion capture systems are widely used in sports and medicine. The performance of these systems depends on, amongst other factors, the quality of the camera calibration process. This study proposes a technique to assess the accuracy of the extrinsic camera parameters, as estimated during calibration.

Application of neural oscillators to study the effects of walking speed on rhythmic activations at the ankle.

Background: Spinal pattern generators (SPG) are neural networks in the spinal cord that do not require a central input from the brain to generate a motor output. We wanted to determine whether SPG can adapt to the changing motor demands from walking at different speeds, and performing silly walks.

Methods: An SPG model consisting of an oscillator made up of two neurons was utilised in this study; one neuron activates the soleus and the other activates the tibialis anterior.

Phasic bursting pattern of postural responses may reflect internal dynamics: simulation of trunk reflexes with a neural oscillator model.

Postural responses are usually investigated as reflexes. Several trials are averaged, and trial-to-trial variations are interpreted as noise. Several studies providing single-trial data plots revealed oscillations that may be cancelled out in averaged time series.

Neural oscillators triggered by loading and hip orientation can generate activation patterns at the ankle during walking in humans.

Spinal pattern generators (SPGs), which are neural networks without a central input from the brain may be responsible for controlling locomotion. In this study, we used neural oscillators to examine the rhythmic patterns generated at the ankle during walking. Seven healthy male subjects were requested to walk at their normal self-selected speed on a treadmill.

Comparative study between patellar-tendon-bearing and pressure cast prosthetic sockets.

This study compared the pressure distribution at the residual limb and socket interface in amputees wearing a pressure cast (PCast) socket system with amputees wearing the patellar-tendon-bearing (PTB) socket. The PCast system requires the subject to place his or her residual limb in a pressure chamber. Pressure is applied to the residual limb while the subject adopts a normal standing position.