ANALYSIS OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A BRAND-NEW PROSTHETIC FOOT

Abstract

Aim. To identify opportunities for the development of a brand-new prosthetic foot. Mate­rials and methods. Based on the data from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, the paper provides a review of modern approaches to prosthetic design. Attention was focused on production technologies, materials, and scientific approaches that reduce the price of the finished product while preserving its consumer properties. Results. Before 2000, the SACH foot (Solid Ankle Cushion Heel) was mainly used for restoring vertical balance and basic gait patterns and was provided as a simple construction made of wood or plastic and surrounded by compressed urethane foam. The SACH technology evolved into ESR (Energy-Storing-and-Returning), including early ESR, advanced ESR, and articulated ESR. Starting in the 00s, bionic feet and active/hybrid adaptive foot prostheses have been actively developed. The most promising field of study, in our opinion, is further improvement of ESR prostheses through constructive changes (such as imitation of toes), the search for low-cost alternatives to carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (nylon 3D printing with carbon fiber-reinforced nylon), prosthesis customization (one-keel or multi-keel prostheses). Conclusion. The most promising way to improve consumer properties and reduce costs is through the development of new approaches to prosthetic design. Scientific and technological foundations should be formed with respect to the principles of personified medicine and using composite materials that provide parameters close to a healthy foot.