A transhumeral level suspension system comprising at least one magnetic unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a transhum eral level suspension system (10) that does not limit the glenohumeral joint movements by keeping the proximal limits of the socket as distal as possible in people with transhumeral level amputations, and also to increase the confidence of the person in the prosthesis; comprising at least one shoulder orthosis (1) worn on the amputated arm and forming the main body, and at least one attachment unit (4) to enable the shoulder orthosis (1) to be attached to the human body at the transhumeral level, at least one magnetic unit (2) positioned on said shoulder orthosis (1) and providing suspension and alignment between the stump and the socket.

Description

[0001] A TRANSHUMERAL LEVEL SUSPENSION SYSTEM COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE MAGNETIC UNIT

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a transhumeral level suspension system comprising at least one magnetic unit for improving prosthesis-stump fit, reliability of the prosthesis, and prosthesis suspension in people who have undergone transhumeral level amputations.

[0004] State of the Art

[0005] In the state of the art, transhumeral level suspension systems may include mechanical suspension with rubber bands and straps, vacuum suspension, suspension with an osteointegration system, and silicone liner suspension. In the vacuum (low pressure) suspension system, muscle atrophy increases, it becomes difficult to apply too short to very short stumps, wound formation on the edges of the socket, pathological pressure points on the skin and bruising at the tip of the stump can be observed. In the silicone liner system; allergic reactions may be observed, it has a high effect on muscle atrophy, is difficult to apply to short stumps, and increases the prosthesis' weight slightly. Maintaining the osteointegration and suspension systems in the postoperative period is critical. If not performed, it may lead to serious infections and amputation revision. This system is not widely used in our country, particularly in the upper extremities. Skin irritation, sweating, and deformations have been observed in the existing vacuum suspension system and silicone lined suspension system as a result of the constant pressure applied to the stump. Meanwhile, these systems' application on short to very short stumps is difficult.

[0006] Aside from these, suspension is being tried with rigid frame flexible socket and CRS socket applications at the transhumeral level. These systems have fewer disadvantages than the others, however, the suspension is provided by anatomical structures, and the proximal limits in short-very short stumps extend up to the glenohumeral joint. In transhumeral level amputations, the extension of the socket boundary above the shoulder joint limits the range of motion in the glenohumeral joint and leads to muscle atrophy. Moreover, the muscles' carrying capacity decreases.

[0007] On the other hand, transhumeral amputations have significant disadvantages when compared to other levels. Some of these include functional limitations in daily activities, difficulty adjusting the prosthesis to the stump, high cost of high-end systems in the prosthesis used, aesthetic concerns and deterioration of body image, psychosocial disorders due to the high level, and loss of independence.

[0008] When all of these factors are considered, there is a need to develop transhumeral level suspension systems to avoid problems such as muscle atrophy, skin irritations, suspension weakness, and the high cost that suspension systems in the current state of the art bring to prosthesis users. Furthermore, suspension and motion control systems designed for the upper limb do not currently include magnetic units.

[0009] Brief Description of the Invention

[0010] This invention aims to create a transhumeral level suspension system comprising at least one magnetic unit to improve prosthesis-stump compatibility, the person's confidence in the prosthesis, and the suspension between the stump and the socket without restricting glenohumeral joint movements by keeping the socket's proximal limits as distal as possible in people who have undergone transhumeral level amputation.

[0011] In accordance with this purpose, with the invention; the suspension is increased via the gravitational force of at least one magnetic unit positioned on the shoulder orthosis, the proximal borders of the socket are reduced to distal, allowing more comfortable shoulder movements, the weight of the prosthesis is reduced by removing the proximal part of the socket, and the neoprene material used in the system prevents skin irritation and deformation that occur in current suspension systems. The problem that the invention focuses on and is intended to solve is the improvement of prosthesis-stump compatibility. Magnet and neoprene adhesion ensure prosthesis-stump compatibility. Terminating the socket borders as distal as possible provides the muscles with a range of motion and prevents atrophy. Furthermore, the neoprene fabric used in the orthosis is a flexible material that resists abrasion, sweat, and water. It rarely causes allergic reactions and is gentle on the skin. It provides comfort, particularly in daily activities and sports. It is easy to put on and take off. It is significantly more affordable and accessible than existing suspension systems. It lowers the cost of the prosthesis system to the individual, and while this lower cost increases access to the prosthesis, it also prevents the prevention of prosthesis use due to financial constraints.

[0012] The invention is a versatile product suitable for amputees of all levels who have undergone transhumeral level amputation. It is possible to create personalized products. The suspension system and number of magnetic units can be adjusted based on the activity level. People who enjoy sports will appreciate the extra comfort provided by the neoprene fabric.

[0013] In conclusion, the benefits of the innovative transhumeral level suspension system are as follows:

[0014] • It increases suspension by utilizing the magnetic unit's gravity.

[0015] • Skin irritation and deformity are prevented.

[0016] • It does not restrict glenohumeral joint movements, therefore, muscle atrophy is avoided.

[0017] • The weight of the prosthesis decreases while its portability increases.

[0018] • It is significantly less expensive than current systems.

[0019] • It is highly accessible.

[0020] • Since it is not a technically complicated product, it is unlikely to malfunction, and maintenance costs are minimal.

[0021] • Neoprene fabric is long-lasting, allowing the user to use this product for many years.

[0022] • Provides comfort for people who are very active.

[0023] • The suspension provided by the person's muscle strength and anatomical structures is enhanced with magnetic units from the outside, resulting in energy savings and ease of operation.

[0024] Description of The Figures

[0025] Figure 1. A representative frontal view of the inventive suspension system as worn by an exemplary person with a transhumeral level amputation.

[0026] Description of the References in the Figures In order to better understand the invention, the corresponding numbers in the figures are given below:

[0027] 10. Suspension system

[0028] 1. Shoulder orthosis

[0029] 2. Magnetic unit

[0030] 3. Pocket

[0031] 4. Attachment unit

[0032] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0033] The inventive transhum eral level suspension system (10), which does not restrict glenohumeral joint movements by keeping the proximal limits of the socket as distal as possible in persons with transhumeral level amputations, and which also increases the person's confidence in the prosthesis, comprises; at least one shoulder orthosis (1) worn on the amputated arm and forms the main body, at least one magnetic unit (2) positioned on said shoulder orthosis (1) to provide stump-to-socket suspension and alignment, at least one pocket (3) located on the body of the shoulder orthosis (1), preferably for fixing at least one electrode at the site of maximum muscle signal for users who prefer myoelectric-microprocessor prosthesis, at least one attachment unit (4) to ensure that the shoulder orthosis (1) which is securely fastened to the human body at the transhumeral level.

[0034] The shoulder orthosis (1) is best made of neoprene (or fabric). As a result, it is soft, durable, and resistant to abrasion, extending its lifespan and keeping the skin from sweating. Furthermore, it improves patient comfort due to its sweat and water resistance, flexible structure, and breathable surface. It gives the patient a gentle and secure feeling.

[0035] The magnetic unit (2) is preferably located on the distal part of the shoulder orthosis (1) and functions to aid in socket suspension and stump-socket fit. It provides comfort to the user by keeping the socket in place and preventing skin irritation and deformation. The magnetic units' (2) attraction force eliminates the pressure areas provided by specific areas to ensure adhesion. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the magnetic units (2) are magnets, specifically neodymium magnets capable of carrying a predetermined weight, such as up to 15 kg. The magnetic units (2) are intended to allow the person to carry both the prosthesis and the extra load. The magnetic units (2) have a very strong attraction force, can be manufactured in small sizes, and provide suspension. Electromagnetic force is utilized throughout the suspension system (10), increasing adhesion. The magnetic unit (2) is the most important component of the suspension. The magnetic unit (2) has predetermined dimensions of 5mm in diameter and 3mm in height. It is also placed on the shoulder orthosis (1) in predetermined numbers and arranged around the stump at predetermined intervals, preferably 3 anterior and 3 posterior to the stump. Similarly, magnetic units (2) are placed on the inner surface of the socket, and when the magnetic units (2) are positioned opposite each other, the magnetic units (2) of opposite polarity hold together when worn by the person. The normal range of motion is not impeded, and a double-sided magnetic unit (2) is held in the distal to the stump. The gravity of the magnetic units (2) minimizes the suspension provided by anatomical structures. The magnetic unit (2) allows for more distal finishing of the socket's proximal borders, as well as suspension. It is easily adaptable to current prosthetic applications. It is more accessible than other materials. Therefore, the gravitational force of the opposite poles of the magnetic units (2) used in the inventive system reduces the load on the muscles, and the magnetic units (2) provide the bearing force rather than the anatomical structures. The weight of the prosthesis decreases as the borders are reduced from proximal to distal, making it easier for the user to carry. Furthermore, the neodymium magnet used has a maximum magnetic field and loses 1% of that field over a predetermined time period, such as 10 years. Given these characteristics, it is the best type of magnetic unit (2) in terms of adhesion and durability. It is also extremely durable due to its high corrosion resistance. The average use period is 12-14 years.

[0036] The inventive system (10) comprises at least one pocket (3) positioned on the shoulder orthosis (1) for the areas where the maximum muscle signal will be received and may be inserted and removed without limiting the anatomical structures of the shoulder. These pockets (3) are designed for myoelectric and microprocessor electrodes and are located where EMG signals are received. On the other hand, the pockets (3) on the shoulder orthosis (1) should be made of neoprene (or fabric). The pockets (3) can be removed and placed inside the shoulder orthosis (1). The pockets (3) ensure that the electrodes are securely attached to the relevant muscles for people who want to use myoelectric and microprocessor prostheses. The attachment unit (4) included in the invention's suspension system (10) is preferably an axillary strap, which is used to secure the shoulder orthosis (1) to the human body. An orthosis that cannot be attached to the body cannot connect the socket and orthosis stumps. It is therefore an important part. It enables the shoulder orthosis to hold on to the body and gives confidence to the person.

[0037] The inventive upper limb suspension system (10) comprising at least one magnetic unit (2) helps prosthesis users maintain their lives more easily and actively. Industrial Applicability of the Invention

[0038] The invention relates to a transhumeral level suspension system (10) for transhumeral level amputation and is applicable to industry. The invention is not limited to the above description and a person skilled in the art can easily come up with different applications of the invention. These should be evaluated within the scope of the protection claimed by the claims of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A transhumeral level suspension system (10) that does not limit the glenohumeral joint movements by keeping the proximal limits of the socket as distal as possible in people with transhumeral level amputations, and also to increase the confidence of the person in the prosthesis; comprising at least one shoulder orthosis (1) worn on the amputated arm and forming the main body, and at least one attachment unit (4) to allow the said shoulder orthosis (1) to be attached to the human body at the transhumeral level, characterized in that it comprises at least one magnetic unit (2) positioned on said shoulder orthosis (1) and providing suspension and alignment between the stump and the socket.

2. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) that does not limit the glenohumeral joint movements by keeping the proximal limits of the socket as distal as possible in people with transhumeral level amputations, and also to increase the confidence of the person in the prosthesis; comprising at least one shoulder orthosis (1) worn on the amputated arm and forming the main body, and at least one attachment unit (4) to allow the said shoulder orthosis (1) to be attached to the human body at the transhumeral level, characterized in that comprises at least one magnetic unit (2) positioned on said shoulder orthosis (1) and providing stump-to-socket suspension and alignment, and at least one pocket (3) positioned on the body of the shoulder orthosis (1) and allowing at least one electrode to be fixed to the relevant muscle at the site of maximum muscle signal in users who prefer myoelectric - microprocessor prostheses.

3. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 1 or Claim 2, characterized in that the magnetic unit (2) is positioned distal to the shoulder orthosis (1).

4. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 3, characterized in that 3 magnetic units (2) are arranged anterior to the stump and 3 posterior to the stump at predetermined intervals around the stump.

5. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 4, characterized in that the magnetic unit (2) is positioned on the inner surface of the socket and oppositely.

6. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 5, characterized in that the magnetic unit (2) has a diameter of 5mm and a height of 3mm.

7. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 6, characterized in that the magnetic unit is a neodymium type magnet.

8. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 7, characterized in that a detachable pocket (3) positioned in the shoulder orthosis (1) for maximum muscle signal reception in the inner part of the glenohumeral joint without restricting the anatomical structures of the shoulder.

9. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 8, characterized in that the shoulder orthosis (1) and pocket (3) are made of neoprene material.

10. The transhumeral level suspension system (10) according to Claim 9, characterized in that an attachment unit (4) with an axillary strap.

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