Comparing effectiveness of PE-lite liner and Silicone liner in Trans-tibial amputee (Descriptive case series)

Abstract

Below-knee amputation, or transtibial amputation, is commonly associated with impairments in muscle function, dermatological complications, friction and excessive pressure on the residual limb. These factors may result in skin conditions such as scaling, erythema, and edema. To facilitate prosthesis use, commonly referred soft liner an interface component placed between the body and the prosthetic socket.
The objective of this pilot study was to compare the effectiveness of PE-lite liner and Silicone liner in transtibial amputees. This research utilized as descriptive case series. The study was conducted on a purposive sample of 3 participants, comimg to Rajpracha Samasai Institute to collect data on the effectiveness of the soft prosthetic liner, measured by reduced pain, ease of use, satisfaction, and functional performance. Assessments were conducted through
a pain score test, a prosthesis evaluation questionnaire, and a device performance test at five specific intervals. The data were analyzed utilizing percentages and mean values to facilitate a comparison between the PE-lite liner and Silicone liner following each use.
The results indicated that pain increased when using the Silicone liner compared to the PE-lite liner, based on the mean pain score, which increased from mild pain to moderate pain. The ease of wearing the Silicone liner decreased compared to the PE-lite liner,
as indicated by the prosthesis evaluation questionnaire category of “prosthesis fit,” which decreased. The “prosthesis satisfaction” category also showed a slight decrease, while the “prosthesis appearance” category slightly increased. However, the functional performance of the Silicone liner was better than that of the PE-lite liner, as assessed by the prosthesis evaluation questionnaire categories of prosthetic mobility and transfer ability, which increased, respectively. Additionally, the device performance test showed a reduced completion time.
The data obtained represent only preliminary information from actual users. Further studies are therefore recommended, including an increased number of participants and more clearly defined specifications of both types of devices.