Buffalo, New York-based LegWorks, Inc. is making life better and more fun for super active amputees. The company has released the ATK HydraPro, a waterproof, highly functional hydraulic prosthetic that allows amputees to ambulate at several walking speeds on ANY terrain. This is the company’s fifth prosthetic.
LegWorks Releases Waterproof, Hydraulic Prosthetic Knee
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“The ATK HydraPro utilizes LegWorks’ patented AutoLock Technology, which provides excellent stability for the user even over the most challenging terrains while also encouraging proper gait patterns,” said Dr. Jan Andrysek, chief technology officer. “It also features a novel swing-phase control system, combining hydraulics and LegWorks’ patent-pending Variable Cadence Controller to enable smooth and optimized gait patterns.”
LegWorks writes in its marketing literature that, “The AutoLock Technology offers superior stability to traditional designs. The knee remains securely locked until late stance-phase when its disengaged for an effortless swing-phase initiation, producing a more natural, energy-efficient stride.”
“Decreased swing-phase initiation effort is associated with more normal walking patterns, as well as lower energy consumption during walking,” said Brandon Burke, chief product officer. “This is important for amputees in order to help preserve musculoskeletal health, but also to allow amputees to walk greater distances without getting tired.”
“We are extremely excited about our product,” said Burke. “The ATK HydraPro is our most advanced and highest functioning knee joint, providing the next level of performance for highly active and demanding amputees.”
Asked for details on the novel swing-phase control system, Brandon Burke explained to OTW, “The Hydraulic Variable Cadence Controller by LegWorks uniquely utilizes three methods for swing-phase control: variable friction, extension assist spring bias, and hydraulic dampers. The resulting effect is that swing-phase is properly controlled, and the hydraulic dampers are not overworked, eliminating the worry of blowing seals on the hydraulic dampers.”
“The Hydraulic Variable Cadence Controller’s unique design allows for faster walking speeds and even light jogging while maintaining a waterproof and corrosion-resistant design so that amputees can be active without having to worry about getting their prosthesis wet or breaking it.”
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This is a fascinating development. In my practice we've seen similar outcomes with the revised protocol. The key differentiator seems to be patient selection criteria. Has anyone else noticed the correlation with BMI thresholds?
Great point. I'd push back slightly on the conclusion, the sample size in the cited study is too small to draw population-level inferences. That said, the directional signal is compelling and worth a larger RCT.
We implemented a similar approach last year. Early results are promising but we're still gathering 12-month follow-up data. Happy to share our protocol if anyone is interested.
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