January 11, 2022
AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 11, 2022– Hanger, Inc. today announced the results of its Stability and Falls Evaluation after AMPutation (SAFE-AMP) 1 study, which evaluates the impact of microprocessor-controlled knees (MPKs) on rates of injurious falls among diabetic and dysvascular people with above-knee amputations. Although diabetes and dysvascular disease are the most common cause of amputations in the United States, the majority of research has focused on traumatic amputations.
Published in the peer-reviewed Assistive Technology Journal, the study found that an MPK can decrease odds of an injurious fall by 250% for individuals with amputation due to diabetes or dysvascular disease. Additionally, the study reveals that not providing a diabetic patient with an MPK increases their risk of falling, more than the risk associated with aging.
Nearly 900 diabetic prosthesis users with above-knee amputations who were eligible for MPKs were analyzed, with data points measured including gender, age, time since amputation, and body mass index (BMI) adjusted for limb loss. The study is anticipated to be the first in a series that will examine the need for greater access to appropriate rehabilitation solutions for below and above-knee amputees in the diabetes community.
“Hanger is committed to conducting innovative research to advance clinical care for patients relying on orthoses and prostheses,” stated James Campbell, PhD, Hanger Chief Clinical Officer. “Our SAFE-AMP findings illustrate that further work is warranted to better understand how all possible orthotic and prosthetic care solutions can help improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for the diabetic patient population.”
SAFE-AMP is part of a diverse collection of research studies already published, or in various stages of publication by the Hanger Institute for Clinical Research and Education, in collaboration with leading researchers, clinical, and academic institutions. Additional information on SAFE-AMP and previously published research can be found here: https://hangerclinic.com/for-professionals/hanger-institute/clinical-research/
About Hanger, Inc. – Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Hanger, Inc. (NYSE: HNGR) provides comprehensive, outcomes-based orthotic and prosthetic (O&P) services through its Patient Care segment, with approximately 800 Hanger Clinic locations nationwide. Through its Products & Services segment, Hanger distributes branded and private label O&P devices, products and components, and provides rehabilitative solutions. Rooted in 160 years of clinical excellence and innovation, Hanger is a purpose-driven company with a vision to lead the O&P markets by providing superior patient care, outcomes, services and value, aimed at empowering human potential. For more information on Hanger, visit news.hanger.com.
Contact:
Annie Myers
External Relations Manager
(210) 440-7380 or [email protected]