A Software Package for Design and Manufacture of Prosthetic Sockets for Transtibial Amputees

A software package, written in Pascal, whkh automates the shape management process associated with fitting prosthetic sockets to transtibial (below-knee) amputees, is described. The system allows an operator to apply global and piecewise transformations, based upon clinkal measurements, to a primitive socket database. These transformations yield a modified socket database which defines the surface shape of a positive socket mold over which an amputee's prosthetic socket is formed. The mold is replicated using a computer numerkally controled milling machine, with the final socket being formed over this mold by a specialized vacuum former. Preliminary clinical trials indkate that this automated approach to shape management yields comfortable prostheses, with savings in time and cost over the traditional methods of prosthesis manufacture.