
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have validated the Colorado Limb Donning-Timed Up and Go (COLD-TUG) test.
The test, developed by a team led by Jason Stoneback at CU Anschutz, showed that bone-anchored prostheses (BAL) are donned faster than traditional socket-style prostheses.
It becomes the first validated tool to measure performance in lower-limb amputees using bone-anchored prostheses, a significant improvement in donning efficiency.
The study evaluated the time required to don a prosthesis, rise from a chair, walk around 10ft, turn, return, and sit down.
It involved 31 patients with unilateral lower extremity amputation, of which 16 used BAL prostheses and 15 used traditional socket-style prostheses.
The study’s lead author Mohamed Awad said: “The aim of this study was to develop and examine the reliability and validity of the Colorado Limb Donning-Timed Up and Go (COLD-TUG) test.
“This test combines the time required for donning a prosthesis with the time to complete the TUG test in lower-extremity amputees using a prosthesis.”
The study findings showed that BAL prosthesis users could don their prostheses significantly faster, by about 61 seconds, compared to those using socket-style prostheses.
The efficiency is beneficial as prosthesis users may don and doff their prostheses up to 15 times a day, translating into substantial time savings over weeks and months.
The COLD-TUG test results align with patient reports that BAL prostheses offer improved mobility, stability, and balance.
Regardless of previous anecdotal evidence, it is the first time a performance-based test has provided empirical support for these claims.
The test offered valuable insights into the benefits of the bone-anchored prosthesis.
The study’s senior author Stoneback said: “The test is simple and elegant. It was developed here at CU Anschutz and it’s a game changer not only because of how specific it is but also because it tests the right things.
“As more patients opt for BAL, health care providers around the world need validated functional outcome measures specific to BAL patients.”
“Each time they prepare to move, they save nearly a minute. If we make a calculation that we are awake for 12 hours then you are talking about hours saved over time, time that can be spent living, not just preparing to move. This will make them more active and confident.”
“The COLD-TUG test quantifies something amputees have been experiencing for years. By measuring what is important to this population of patients we as providers can help them choose the best option for their lives.”