***Note: This page is "under construction"....more info/photos/video to come soon!
NPS (Vacuum) Socket System
Overview:Our patented NPS system utilizes a vacuum chamber to remove air from the space between a sheath or sock, the socket of the prosthesis and the liner. The vacuum created by the removal of the air attaches the liner evenly to the socket wall without squeezing. Unlike other prosthesic suspension systems which focus the weight and force of the prosthesis on one point at the bottom of the socket, vacuum systems spread the pressures evenly over the entire socket.The leg does not shift within the socket because captured air is forced out through an opening at the bottom of the socket, which maintains the vacuum with a valve that closes the opening. For more information on our patented NPS technology, click here NPS Socket --->
Examples of all systems are shown below:
Knee Disarticulation (through knee) System:
Transfemoral (above knee) NPS Vacuum System:
The double-wall NPS vacuum socket is designed to give AK amputees a prosthesis that fits intimately and provides increased control and security. An added benefit is that the comfortable trim lines allow for a larger range of motion.
A silicone liner is rolled onto the residual limb. If the limb is relatively uniform in shape an “off-the-shelf” liner can be used. For those residual limbs with a more complicated shape, a custom liner will be made in our on-site liner manufacturing lab.
The second component of the system is the prosthetic sock. These socks are layered on top of the liner and act as a wick between the liner and the socket. Socks also accommodate for volume changes within the residual limb.
Next, the inner cup is slid over the prosthetic sock. This is where the POA system is different than others. A vacuum chamber laminated into the cup will allow even pressure to be distributed over the entire residual limb. A sealing sleeve, which is attached to the inner cup, is rolled up to seal against the liner.
Lastly, the outer socket (with the knee and foot attached) is placed over the inner cup and the two pieces become one when they are locked together with a pin. Air is removed from the socket through a vacuum tube using a hand pump or battery pump - whichever you prefer. This creates the intimate fit that results in the feeling that the prosthesis is a part of you.
Hip Disarticulation System:
(this patient is wearing what is called a check socket or "test" socket) 
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