Project Lead(s): Jan Andrysek
Issue
Lower-extremity amputation is a major disability affecting an estimated 10 million people globally.
Providing functional artificial limbs is a key part of the rehabilitation process, restoring mobility and reducing the effects of the disability.
However, there is currently a large, unmet need for artificial knee joint technologies that are functional and affordable.
Solution
The aim of the project was to test and further develop a functional and affordable artificial knee joint (AT-Knee) for lower-limb amputations, intended for use globally in both high- and low-income countries.
The AT-Knee is based on novel yet simple control mechanisms that provide the necessary function to allow users to effectively and efficiently walk.
Long-term clinical field trials were conducted to assess function, durability and ease of use in a developing country context.
The AT-Knee has been extensively tested over periods of 12 to 24 months in a number of different countries.
Outcome
When compared to more expensive artificial knees, users of the AT-Knee were able to walk with much greater efficiency (40% lower energy expenditure). Users also felt much more stable and less likely to fall. As a result, 90% of these users preferred the AT-Knee for daily use over existing technologies.
Other benefits of the AT-Knee technology include ease of maintenance, durability, set-up and alignment, making it ideal for use in many low- and middle-income countries.
On the basis of this successful proof-of-concept, Grand Challenges Canada has continued to support LegWorks to bring this innovation to scale through refinement of the design for manufacturing and clinical application, and developing manufacturing processes for production.
Since the commercial launch of the AT-Knee in early 2016, nearly 800 knees have been ordered and are being delivered to clients. Over the next five years, this social enterprise projects sales of 37,000 units.