Oxygen consumption during ambulation: comparison of using a prosthesis fitted with and without a tele-torsion device.

Objective: To determine the energy expenditure and subjective comfort rating of walking in transtibial amputee patients using their prosthesis fitted either with or without a tele-torsion device (TT Pylon).

Methods: Randomized, before-after trial. Methods: Gait laboratory. Methods: Six men, moderately active, with unilateral transtibial amputation (mean age, 39.5 +/- 9.9y). Methods: Subjects walked on a motorized treadmill using their prosthesis fitted either with (ProsWith) or without (ProsWithout) a TT Pylon. Trials were repeated with subjects walking at speeds 100%, 130%, and 160% of their "normal" pace. Methods: The energy expended (VO(2)) and subjective comfort rating during each walking trial.

Results: VO(2) during walking with the prosthesis fitted with the TT Pylon was 5.4% and 9.1% lower than when using the prosthesis without the TT Pylon, at the speeds 130% and 160% of normal, respectively. Findings at the speed 160% greater than normal were significant (P <.05). Two of the subjects perceived no difference in prosthetic comfort between ProsWith and ProsWithout. The other 4 subjects preferred the TT Pylon at all speeds.

Conclusions: Use of a TT Pylon can significantly reduce the energy expenditure of walking at speeds above normal.