Abstract:
Transfemoral amputation, commonly known as above-knee amputation, presents significant biomechanical and functional challenges due to the loss of the knee joint and associated musculature. This paper explores the causes, clinical considerations, and post-operative rehabilitation strategies for transfemoral amputees. A detailed classification of prostheses—particularly the differences between exoskeletal and endoskeletal designs—is presented, with emphasis on the critical role of the knee joint in restoring gait stability and mobility. The paper compares single-axis and polycentric (four-bar) prosthetic knee joints, analyzing their biomechanics and suitability for different user profiles.
The study also investigates material selection for prosthetic components across developed and developing countries. Overall, this review underscores the importance of context-specific prosthetic design and material selection, aiming to improve affordability, functionality, and quality of life for transfemoral amputees globally.
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