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Plie Microprocessor Q&A 

Jennifer Latham Robinson

 

 
The Plié Microprocessor Knee:  An Interview with Freedom Innovations
 
Microprocessor prosthetic knees have become the norm in today’s prosthetic industry.  They are certainly not for every amputee or every activity, but the benefits for those who do use microprocessor knees are undeniable.  Amputees and practitioners now have a wider selection to choose from, as manufacturers are stepping up with newer models and impressive product features.
 
360 O&P recently sat down with Freedom Innovations to talk about the newest microprocessor prosthetic knee on the market:  The Plié MPC Knee.  Here’s what they had to say.
   
Q:         How long has the Freedom Innovations’ microprocessor knee, The Plié, been on the market?
A:         Following three years of development and testing, the Plié MPC Knee was launched in a limited release format in May 2007.
 
Q:         How does this microprocessor knee function? 
A:         The Plié uses advanced hydraulic engineering and optimized microprocessor programming to make constant, nearly instantaneous adjustments to changes in gait dynamics.  The knee measures and reacts to gait dynamics in 1/10 the time it take to blink your eye. That’s why it provides incredibly precise response to gait dynamics as they occur rather than a step behind.  The net result is an easier, more natural gait, so amputees can stop concentrating on stability and regain the freedom to enjoy the world around them. The Plié MPC Knee engenders greater confidence in amputees under a wider variety of conditions-including variable-speed walking, ascending or descending stairs and navigating ramps.
 
Q:         Other microprocessor knees must be plugged in for charging nightly.  Do you have to do that with the Plie?  How does it get its power?  How long does the charge generally last? 
A:         The Plié is unique because it uses a replaceable lithium ion battery just like a digital camera.  The knee is sold with two batteries so that users can always shave a spare on hand.  Each battery will power the knee for 1-2 days, depending on the user. We recommend that you alternate batteries daily to be sure you always have a full charge. The independent battery charger also has a car adapter so you can charge on the road.
 
Q:         How does the knee react when it’s out of power?
A:         In the case of battery power loss, the Plié will go into ‘stance mode’ so that it provides you the support needed to be stable without becoming a completely locked or free-swinging knee.  You will be able to bend the knee and get to a chair, but it will be uncomfortable. For this reason, we recommend charging the battery each night or carrying a second battery with you.
 
Q:         How was Freedom Innovations able to make this device water resistant?  Is there anything special user must do with the knee, such as cleaning, after they have been boating or swimming?
A:         While the Plié knee is not meant to be used as a swimming prosthesis, the electronics and mechanical parts have been protected against incidental contact with water.  There is no longer a need to be concerned with unexpected rain or spilled drinks.  Users are free to boat and even wash their cars.  If the knee comes into contact with salt or chlorinated water, the user will simply need to rinse it with fresh water and towel dry.  It is important to note that repeated contact with salt water will corrode the metal screws and lessen the life of the product. The knee is safe from occasional contact with water, but is not meant to be submerged in deep water on a repeated basis.
 
Q:         Are you limited to certain prosthetic feet when using this knee unit?
A:         You are free to utilize any prosthetic foot with the Plié knee, given you have the clearance required.  The Plié knee is relatively low profile and does not require additional components such as a sensor pylon, freeing you to choose from a very wide variety of foot products. We completed testing of the knee with Freedom Innovations foot products, but you are free to use the foot product of your choice.
 
Q:         Does this knee unit have multiple modes?  Such as a standard mode, free swing mode, or stiff mode? 
A:         The Plié has a user adjustable stance resistance feature located on the back of the knee. Using a 4mm wrench you can go from a low resistance knee for bicycling to a high resistance, stiffer knee for working in a factory line.  To make this adjustment, it will be helpful to have a knee rotator so that you can access the adjustment location more easily.
 
Q:         Can an extended warranty be purchased, in addition to the 36 month warranty? 
A:         We do not currently offer an extended warranty, but will evaluate such a program in the future.
 
Q:         Does Freedom Innovations regularly service the knee?  If so, how often?
A:         The Plié knee must be sent in after 12 and 24 months of use. We will conduct a full inspection and repair any parts required to maintain the knee’s performance. This service is provided at no charge and a ‘loaner’ knee is provided while the service is underway.
 
Q:         Is this knee available for people presenting with long residual limbs or knee disarticulation amputation?
A:         The Plié knee is a relatively low profile microprocessor knee that does not require an additional sensor pylon. For this reason, transfemoral amputees with longer residual limbs may be candidates for the product. The Plié requires 235mm (9.25 inches) of clearance. Knee disarticulation amputees can also use the knee in its current pyramid top design. You will want to consult your prosthetist to learn more.
 
Q:         Who are the ideal candidates for this particular knee?
A:         The Plié knee is appropriate for a wide variety of users that would benefit from the safety of a microprocessor in a knee that is very smooth and free during the swing phase of gait. If you are able to walk at varied speeds and maneuver community obstacles such as street curbs, you are a good candidate for the knee.  Your prosthetist can provide more information.
 
Q:         Anything else you can tell us about this new technology? 
A:         To learn more about the Plié MPC Knee, please visit our new website athttp://www.freedom-innovations.com/.
 
As a company we greatly value user feedback, both positive and suggestions for improvements. Here is one example of user feedback from Karen Hughes, a long time amputee and experienced microprocessor knee user that has worn the Plié since its early testing stages:
 
“What impresses me most about the Plié knee is that I feel like I am controlling it, rather than it controlling me, yet I have security of knowing it will be there for me when I need it.  I can walk down slopes or rocky terrain, confident that the stance resistance (stumble control) will kick in and take over when necessary. Moving among crowds and at varying speeds is a breeze. I no longer feel like a robot - my gait is even and graceful.  It’s the closest I’ve ever come to walking "naturally" in the 35+ years since my amputation.”
 
Karen Hughes
Mother and transfemoral amputee
 

 


 


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Comments

jonemartin : re: Plie Microprocessor Q&A commented on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 2:07:14 AM
Plie Microprocessor is a gadget, patients can buy this device and massage on his knees. Professional Tile and Grout Cleaning Services in Freehold NJ
Greg Bauer : re: Plie Microprocessor Q&A commented on Sunday, April 12, 2009 9:42:43 PM

It depends....Have you worn a prosthesis prior to receiving this type of knee?  For a new amputee to walk confidently it can take some time.  I encourage you to seek physical therapy to help with the transition.  As far as the pain is concerned, I am not sure the knee is causing the pain.  You may want to check back with your prosthetist to adjust any pressures you may be having within the socket.

Tom Stanley : re: Plie Microprocessor Q&A commented on Saturday, April 11, 2009 2:28:56 PM

Hi. I have had thePlie MPC Knee for just a little over a week. I am having problems walking with it. It seems to take a lot of effort to make it swing. How long does it normal take for a person to start walking pretty normal.  It is also hurting my leg to some degree. Thanks forany help you can give me.

Tom Stanley

stanlte@yahoo.com

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