EchelonVAC
3 Optimal socket connection is critical to an amputee’s comfort, security and stability. By pairing Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology with an elevated vacuum system, the design of EchelonVAC works to create a secure and comfortable socket connection.
By harnessing natural ankle motion, EchelonVAC quietly creates elevated vacuum, helping to maintain an optimally fitting socket throughout the day.
Key Features
- Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology with integrated elevated vacuum
- Walking motion generates a natural vacuum
- No power required, quiet gentle operation
- Lightweight, compact design
- Low build height
- E-carbon springs for efficient energy return
- Split toe design for ground compliance on uneven terrain
- Sandal Toe Foot Shell
With every step, the wearer presses their weight into the prosthesis, initially expelling air through a one-way valve. Simultaneously the ankle plantarflexes, actively drawing air out of the socket. This air is held in the vacuum chamber and expelled through a secondary one way valve as the tibia progresses and the ankle dorsiflexes. The result is greater residual limb volume control and an improved connection between the residual limb and the socket. For the user, this reduces relative movement, improving proprioception and control of the prosthesis for greater comfort and safety every day.
How does EchelonVAC work?
Innovative Design
The innovative design of EchelonVAC is lightweight and has a low build height as no external power source is required.
With no batteries or pump to worry about, EchelonVAC is quiet and easy to fit.
When used in conjunction with a Silcare Breathe liner, the vacuum is applied directly to the residual limb to further enhance the connection between the limb and the socket.
The Evidence
Active vacuum systems help to stabilise residual limb volume to improve socket stability and proprioception. Scientific studies have shown that elevated vacuum systems help to:
- Reduce volume fluctuation
- Reduce interface pressures
- Improve wound healing
- Reduce pistoning
- Improve gait symmetry, balance and reduce risk of falls
- Greater comfort and improved overall satisfaction
Real Life Stories
Charlie’s Story
Dennis’s Story
Unique & Proven Echelon Technology
The Echelon range sits at the heart of our pioneering prosthetic philosophy which makes our products so popular with users around the world. Created with a sharp focus on replicating a natural and safe walking experience, each product in the Echelon Range has a characteristic to suit different users and their requirements, providing confidence in every step.
This not only provides excellent energy storing and release properties but also works in harmony with the range of movement in the ankle to provide a natural and comfortable walking experience.
When walking up slopes, the additional range allows the body to move forward over the foot, reducing energy requirements by making rollover easier. When walking down slopes, the foot complies with the slope without forcing the leg forward, allowing for a more controlled descent.
Hydraulic damping and foot springs produce a visco-elastic response that simulates the behaviour of muscles by storing and releasing energy. When compared to non-hydraulic ankles*, this technology is clinically proven to provide comfort, safety, natural walking, balanced limb loading and overall greater patient satisfaction.
*Clinical studies, latest research papers and full references available on our website.
Clinical Compendium
Blatchford Biomimetic Hydraulic Technology mimics the dynamic and adaptive qualities of muscle actuation to encourage more natural gait. Multiple independent scientific studies, comparing Blatchford hydraulic ankle-feet to non-hydraulic feet, have shown:
- Greater comfort, reduced socket pressures
- Improved safety, reduced risk of trips and falls
- Smoother, easier and more natural gait
- More evenly balanced inter-limb loading
- Greater satisfaction
Clinical Evidence
Over a decade after challenging conventional wisdom, new scientific evidence continues to be published on the medical advantages of hydraulic ankles. Discover our White Paper ‘A Study of Hydraulic Ankles’.
*Clinical studies, latest research papers and full references available on our website.
Help & Support
EchelonVAC Technical Data
Max. User Weight:
125kg*
275lb*
Activity Level:
3
Size Range:
22-30cm
Component Weight:
700g†
1lb9oz†
Build Height:
121-131mm
4²³/₃₂" - 6⅛"
Maximum Vacuum:
17"Hg
*Maximum user weight 100 kg and always use one higher spring rate category than shown in Spring selection table
†Component weight shown is for a size 26cm without foot shell.
Selection Guide
Click the image for full size version.
Foot Shell Width Guide
Click on the table below to help choose the correct width when ordering the new Sandal Toe Foot Shell. For sizes 25, 26 and 27 you can now choose between Narrow (N) and Wide (W) fittings.
Accessories
| Alignment Wedge | 940093 |
| 4mm Adjuster Key | 940236 |
| Socket Connection Kit | 409663 |
| Check Valve Service Kit | 409863 |
Ordering
Example
| EVAC | 25 | L | N | 3 | S |
| Product Code | Size | Side | Width* | Spring set | Sandal Toe |
*Narrow (N) and Wide (W) available for sizes 25-27 only.
For dark tone add suffix D.
Example: foot size 25, left, narrow, spring rating 3, sandal toe
EchelonVAC Documentation
Product Information
Technical Guides
Science & Education
Other downloads
- EchelonVAC - Ankle Alignment Wedge
- EchelonVAC - Sandal Toe Foot Range Information
- EchelonVAC - Service Kit