Patient evaluation of the Echelon foot using the Seattle Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire.

BACKGROUND

The introduction of the Echelon prosthetic foot with a hydraulic self-aligning ankle adds improved adaptability to varied terrains and uneven walking surfaces. However, the specific indications for prescribing such components and the potential benefits are yet to be fully established.

CASE DESCRIPTION AND METHODS

Nine amputees including three bilateral amputees evaluated their standard prostheses using the Seattle Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire. They were then provided with Echelon feet, and they evaluated them after 4 weeks of use.

FINDINGS AND OUTCOMES

Improved satisfaction in all categories of use in relation to the Echelon foot with the greatest increase reported by bilateral amputees.

CONCLUSION

The use of prosthetic feet with hydraulic self-aligning ankle improves prosthetic users' satisfaction in general with a particular benefit in bilateral amputees.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Establish the clinical impact and user satisfaction after using Echelon feet in prosthetic users with different levels of amputations.