Vacuum-assisted suspension systems consist of a gel liner, a suspension sleeve, and an air evacuation pump.
As a whole, the system functions by creating negative pressure between the prosthetic liner and the socket wall, regulating volume fluctuations in the residual limb, and making suspension more secure as a result.
While vacuum socket systems were originally created as a technology to help reduce complications from peripheral vascular disease, nowadays they’re used for all types of amputees, lifestyles, and activity levels.