Background: The prescription of socket type for above-knee-amputees is based on clinical experience. There are no official guidelines. On the basis of treatment statistics and a patient survey, this study shows the indications and contraindications of a liner system.
Patients and methods: Treatment statistics including data from the medical reports of 183 above-knee-amputees, who were treated in our clinic from 2003 to 2007 were analysed. 32 patients had a system change between liner- and contact-shaft accommodation and were contacted by telephone. The aim was to evaluate satisfaction with the current socket type and thus be able to compare types.
Results: A statistically significant relation in the treatment statistics between the quality of the stump and the socket type can be shown. A mesh graft to cover the stump, extreme volume fluctuation, low activity class and co-morbidities are the main reasons for the use of a liner system. Main reasons for a change to a liner system were the preservation of individual independence, better adhesion and skin problems.
Conclusion: The developed clinical criteria can help physicians decide which socket type is most beneficial for each individual patient.
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.