Leg Prosthetics

Our Standard for Safe Mobility

Many superlatives have been used to describe C-Leg® technology. Now there is a new one:  No other prosthesis system has been the subject of scientific studies so often and so extensively!  The results of these examinations that Otto Bock has included in a study brochure clearly prove the considerable benefits of C-Leg® technology. Law courts have also made their decision accordingly in disputes. The benefits of C-Leg® technology can now be used even better by less active thigh amputees thanks to the new C-Leg® compact.

The C-Leg® product line experienced a steep upward trend last year. It has been noticed throughout the world that prosthesis users who are not so active also benefit from this. The new generation of C-Leg® compact is matched even better to specific requirements and needs. The heart of the system, the microprocessor controller, was revised for this. As a result, the prosthesis user benefits from swing phase control that also corresponds to the requirements for small steps or slow movements.

Permanent electronic stance phase protection makes the C-Leg® product line the safest range of prosthetics by far. C-Leg® compact provides effective protection against falling, particularly to amputees who are in special need of safety. Confidence with prostheses no longer means having to concentrate on one’s own active control of the knee joint with every step.

Scientific studies of C-Leg® technology have focused on the most important criteria for prosthetic users: Drastically fewer falls. Increased reliability and the option to devote one’s life to other things when walking. Another proven advantage of C-Leg® technology is energy-saving mobility. This is focused on more intensely with the C-Leg® compact to extend the action radius of the prosthetic user.
 
The new remote control is characterized by simple operation. It can be used to first activate a stance function that enables a comfortable, arched posture with balanced weight. The user locks the joint in a flexion of his choice. A new design compliments the new development; quality of life with a functionality that can be seen.

Excellent skin compatibility, antibacterial effect and effective reduction of odour – the innovative SilverShield® technology from Otto Bock uses these features in the product line of thermoplastics. It is used for the first time in the production of soft inner sockets and flexible prosthesis inner sockets.

The silver ions bound in the plastic are effective against a wide range of pathogenic bacteria and are continually released. They give the material a high and long lasting anti-bacterial function. The physical advantages of thermoplastic materials are not affected by the addition of antimicrobial silver.
 
There is now the new and effective Sanitized® additive for the 6Y75 silicon gel liner.

Its antibacterial effect protects the liner from bacteria and from unpleasant odours. Sanitized® preserves the material, improves hygiene and increases the wearing comfort over a long period of time.

The 3R90 and 3R92 modular friction brake knee joints were technically and visually completely revised.

Both knee joints are equipped with an innovative, load-dependent brake mechanism. The brake responds to a heavy heel load. It stabilizes the prosthesis and maintains a high level of security during the complete stance phase. A forefoot load automatically turns off the brake and the swing phase can be easily and harmoniously introduced. Unphysiological movements, such as a hip hike, are no longer necessary with this system; the friction brake knee joint combines a high level of security with a harmonious gait. The 3R90 has an integrated extension assist and the 3R92 has a progressive pneumatic swing phase controller. A plastic sleeve protects the mechanical parts of the joint and simultaneously preserves the foam cosmetic section. The ring discs on the lateral surfaces of the knee joint ease the set up of the prosthesis with a recommended back shift of 15 mm.

For test purposes, we recommend the use of 2R45=34 pipe adapters with adjustable length and the 2R77 pipe adapter for definitive fittings. Both joints are approved for patient weights up to 125 kg. The 3R90 is recommended for mobility grade 1 and 2 and the 3R92 for mobility grade 2 and 3.

Modern plastics technology used in leg prosthetics creates the basis for the new 3R41 knee joint. The next generation of traditional locking knee joints offers additional advantages: it is splash water-resistant, lightweight and especially wear-resistant.

Above knee amputees with very low activity level requiring a particularly high degree of stability benefit from simple handling of the innovative release mechanism that can be initiated also under partial load condition.

The mechanical pumps of the Harmony® system have proven that the vacuum between the socket and the liner improves the connection between the user and the prosthesis. Users of the products introduced in 2001 report reduced volume fluctuation and less of a strain on the residual limb and an increased proprioception. These positive experiences have been included in the development of Harmony® e-pulse (item no. 4R148) that is characterized by an electronic pump.

The advantages of the vacuum system can now be used by more patients as there are no restrictions with regard to body weight, activity and the level of amputation for the Harmony® e-pulse. The level of the vacuum is individually adjustable over four preset levels. Even under clothing, the small, light component at the socket or pipe adapter is easy to operate as the user can easily find both operating knobs using the finger slide rails.

Feedback about the setting is possible with an acoustic or LED signal. A massage mode can be activated in rest periods where the device changes between the highest and lowest vacuum levels many times.

Helix3D is the world’s first artificial hip joint that hydraulically controls three dimensional movements in the stance and swing phase. The system sets a new standard in medical aid for people with amputated hips due to the clear gain in safety, dynamics and comfort. The patented multi-axis joint structure compensates pelvic rotation when walking. The unique design reduces a crooked pelvis in the seating position to a minimum and enables leg shortening in the swing phase with the aim to further reduce the danger of falling. 
The step length can be individually adjusted. Walking is much easier and with psychological improvement. A large flexion angle eases everyday situations such as putting on shoes or getting into a car.

Biomechanical analyses show that a safe knee stance phase extension for hip amputees is enabled by the combination of C-Leg® and a Helix3D hip joint.