TEC INTERFACE SYSTEMS INTRODUCES BREAKTHROUGH PRODUCT FOR AMPUTEES
Harmony Socket Enhancement System Dramatically Improves Amputees’ Mobility, Comfort Level.
TEC® (Total Environment Control) Interface Systems
today announced the release of the Harmony® Socket Enhancement System. This revolutionary
system uses vacuum technology to help maintain consistent volume in the residual limb of
lower-extremity amputees. Volume loss is a common side effect that can lead to an inconsistent fit
of a prosthetic socket. Through the use of TEC’s new vacuum technology, called VASS™
(Vacuum-Assisted Socket System), amputees are experiencing increased levels of comfort and
mobility, dramatically improving their quality of life.
“Since our inception in 1989, TEC Interface Systems has been dedicated to creating breakthrough,
value-driven products for amputees,” said Carl Caspers, Chief Executive Officer of TEC Interface
Systems and a below-the-knee amputee. “The Harmony system is an industry first because it
actually manages residual limb volume, rather than simply accommodating it. The result is that
Harmony puts amputees back in the driver’s seat—they are able to walk longer and more
comfortably without making frequent adjustments to their prosthesis.”
The Harmony system with VASS technology manages many of the common prosthetic problems
experienced by amputees. The system:
• Maintains a balanced volume in the residual limb, which minimizes movement of
the limb within the socket and thereby maximizes overall performance.
• Enhances the connection between the limb and the prosthesis, creating the most
secure and consistent fit available.
• Promotes a more natural gait as well as a sense of the prosthesis as an extension of
the leg, rather than as a separate entity.
• Reduces friction between the limb and liner and between the liner and socket,
which prevents painful blisters and skin abrasions and extends the life of the liner.
• Dispels perspiration for improved comfort.
TEC Interface Systems Introduces the Harmony System...
The VASS system is the result of extensive research by TEC and St. Cloud University’s
Human Performance Laboratory in Minnesota. Independent studies conducted at the
university indicated a daily volume loss of 6 to 12 percent in the residual limb of amputees
wearing a liner, sealing sleeve and expulsion valve. The same sample group lost less then 1
percent of residual limb volume with an elevated vacuum level (greater than 15 Hg), such as
that provided by VASS technology.
The Harmony Socket Enhancement System retails for approximately $4,000 per pump.
About TEC Interface Systems
Based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, TEC® Interface Systems (www.tecinterface.com) specializes in
custom and prefabricated liners, suspension sleeves, and post-operative and volume management
products for the prosthetics industry. TEC’s commitment to quality, research and customer service
provides amputees worldwide with the means to enrich the quality of their lives and expand their
boundaries. Founded in 1989, TEC manufactures and distributes innovative prosthetic and
Orthotic devices for more than 250 amputees per week.
