Researchers Connect First Click On Arm Prosthesis to Nerves

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Article: http://neurosciencenews.com/arm-neuron-neuroprosthesis-6535/

In the Netherlands the first patient to receive a click-on robotic arm now has a prosthesis controlled by his own thoughts. The robotic arm is connected directly to the bone which allows maximum range of motion, no discomfort on the skin, and can be taken on and off with ease. To receive the prosthesis a patient undergoes a process of three surgeries; inserting a metal rod into the marrow cavity of the bone, 6-8 weeks later screwing a connecting rod to the prior inserted rod, and finally connecting the nerves that controlled muscles in the hand and underarm before the amputation to parts of the muscles in the underarm stump. After the surgeries the patient undergoes a rehabilitation period where they learn to contract upper arm muscles with their thoughts. Once nerves have grown into the muscle, signals are sent to the Myoband (electrodes surrounding the upper arm) and computer, controlled by Bluetooth, making movement possible.

                Computers and technology are a part of everyday life, but it is amazing that an individual’s thoughts can connect to technology and alter their body and abilities. An individual using muscles and nerves in their upper arm to then communicate movement to a prosthesis used to be unheard of, so what would be the next step in improving prosthesis’? Movements from limbs are just as important to an individual as the information that our limbs bring in. Could science next find a way to incorporate the somatosenses of skin senses or proprioception through electrodes and Bluetooth to then signals to the brain (the opposite of the process which is currently occurring with these prosthesis)? 

Comments

  1. AnonymousMay 2, 2017 at 8:38 AM

    There seem to be many exciting new developments in the world of prosthesis. In one of my post, I spoke of the newly practiced method of routing nerves directly from the spine to communicate with the device. I am curious of whether the prosthesis spoken of in your article operates in the same way, or if the nerves are routed from a more superficial level. Furthermore, my article spoke of not only the range of motion for the arm, but also the intricate, detailed moves such as wrist rotation. I am curious if this prosthesis also provides these detailed movements. Regardless, it is clear that many advances have been made in this field recently. It is clear that the goal of a fully mobile prosthetic arm is obtainable.

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