FURI | Spring 2019

Active Thermoregulation for Transtibial Prosthetic Sockets

Transtibial amputation is the most common type of major lower limb amputation.  With approximately 2 million current amputees and 185,000 new cases each year due to vascular diseases (diabetes) in the United States.  The quality of life of an amputee post-surgery relies on the functionality of the prosthetic and the ability for daily use.  Approximately 53% of amputees experience heat discomfort with their prosthetic.  Heat discomfort can result in dermatological problems such as skin blistering and skin irritation.  The goal for this project is to create an active thermoregulatory add-on device for temperature management inside a transtibial prosthetic socket.