Silicone, Thermoplastic Elastomer, and Polyurethane Prosthetic Liners: Material-Dependent Biomechanics, Clinical Decision-Making, and Research Priorities - A Critical Narrative Review
Abstract: Background: Prosthetic liners couple soft residual-limb tissues to a comparatively rigid socket. Their mechanical response may modify loading and suspension, while limited heat and vapor transfer can complicate prolonged wear. Material-family labels are often used in prescription despite marked product-to-product variation. Objective: To examine what published comparisons actually establish about silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and polyurethane (PU) liners, and to distinguish measurable material differences from unproven clinical assumptions. Methods: This critical narrative review integrates selected peer-reviewed investigations of liner compression, shear, tension, friction, and thermal conductivity. Evidence is organized by test domain and clinical relevance. Because no exhaustive database screening or formal risk-of-bias procedure was completed, the synthesis is not described as systematic. Findings: In one commercial-product comparison, mean compressive tangent moduli were 310 ± 100 kPa for silicone, 140 ± 30 kPa for TPE, and 300 ± 40 kPa for PU; corresponding shear values were 69 ± 17, 21 ± 5, and 63 ± 3 kPa. Reinforcement strongly affected tensile response, and tested PU products had comparatively low friction. These results describe particular products and protocols, not intrinsic polymer constants or demonstrated patient-outcome advantages. Conclusion: A polymer-only ranking cannot guide reliable prescription. Clinical selection requires consideration of construction, socket fit, suspension, tissue condition, activity, moisture, and patient-reported experience. Comparative patient-level studies remain necessary.
Keywords: Prosthetic liners; socket-interface biomechanics; silicone; thermoplastic elastomers; polyurethane
How to Cite?: Sanket Kumar Rout, Sonali Mishra, "Silicone, Thermoplastic Elastomer, and Polyurethane Prosthetic Liners: Material-Dependent Biomechanics, Clinical Decision-Making, and Research Priorities - A Critical Narrative Review", Volume 15 Issue 11, November 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 445-449, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261111175803, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261111175803