In September 2024, the UK will witness the launch of the Genium X4 microprocessor knee from Ottobock, replacing the existing Genium and Genium X3 prostheses.

The Genium X4 is heralded as the next generation of microprocessor prosthetic knees, representing a significant advancement in the realm of prosthetics. It sets new benchmarks in performance and physiological gait, offering users a more natural walking experience compared to its predecessors. Insurers handling personal injury claims are already seeing claims from claimants for the X4.

X4 vs X3

The Genium X4 incorporates several enhancements over the X3, including:

• While retaining the same sensor platform as the X3, the X4 features a new chassis and cylinder. It is slightly smaller with lower baseline resistance, resulting in a lighter and easier walking experience.
• Additional sensors in the X4 improve step behaviour, allowing users to take smaller steps and better navigate ramps and stairs.
• The X4 offers a smoother gait pattern and automatic adaptation from walking to running.
• It is suitable for various environments, and is dustproof, dirt-proof, and fully waterproof, making it the first microprocessor knee capable of being fully submerged in water.
• It supports backward movement, aiding users in opening heavy doors and walking backwards.
• The battery lasts up to five days, but this is contingent on activity levels and environmental conditions. It alerts users when the battery falls below 20%, prompting a recharge. The X3 also has a five-day battery life, but the X4’s alerts add convenience.
• The X4 requires servicing every 24 months, compared to the 12-month service interval for the X3.
• Ideal for highly active individuals, the X4 may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
• The microprocessor functionality allows for continuous data collection from activation, recording steps, stumbles, and stairs climbed, providing verifiable usage data.

Availability and Cost

The Genium X4 will be available from 11 September 2024, with orders already being accepted at Dorset Orthopaedic. Ottobock has confirmed that the Genium and Genium X3 will be discontinued as of September 2024, although warranty packages for recently purchased X3s will be honoured.

The X4 is priced at approximately £134,000, including replacement sockets on a six-year cycle and servicing every two years, reflecting a 5% increase over the X3.

While the capital cost is higher, the enhanced functionality of the X4 could lead to greater independence for users and the smoother gait pattern may reduce associated musculo-skeletal problems. Furthermore, it’s waterproof design may eliminate the need for a separate waterproof limb. The lower servicing frequency may also help reduce overall cost. The X4 will not be for everyone as individual user circumstances and needs will of course always vary, but certainly it looks like the X4 will be viewed as the go-to micro-processor knee in the claims sphere.

Mandeep Chahal-Dhillon is a Senior Associate Solicitor at Clyde and Co and a member of the Amputation Subject Matter Group.

For further information, please contact Clyde & Co Subject Matter Leads, Tony Cawley and Ben Jones.