Integration of the Residual Limb with Prostheses via Direct Skin-Bone-Peripheral Nerve Interface
Abstract
Objectives and Rationale for the Application: The main objective of the project is to complete a translational study towards implementing powered prosthesis with bidirectional control for people with upper limb amputation. Myoelectric arm/hand prostheses controlled by the muscle signals taken by surface electrodes are in clinical use for decades. Their functionality has been limited by the socket type suspension and the signal noise, artifacts, and crosstalk associated with the surface electromyography. The idea of overcoming these limitations with the technology of direct skeletal attachment (DSA) goes back to 1996 as presented by Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark, a pioneer of the DSA. An advantage of DSA prostheses is that they may provide a conduit between the muscles and nerves inside the residuum and the external prosthesis for sensing the environment and generating the commands to the motor(s) of the electric prosthesis. Unfortunately, the current DSA systems are associated with a high rate of skin and deep infection, making that approach too risky for the patients. The applicants will pursue the idea of merging existing powered prostheses with the technology of DSA, but with the use of their novel device called Skin and Bone Integrated Pylon (SBIP) providing the safe and sustainable body-device interface and making a foundation for the reliable closed loop sensory control. Ultimate Applicability and Potential Impact of the Research: In the proposed translational animals study, during gait analysis of pigs and cat, the SBIP system will be tested comparing performance when the sensory control of the experimental powered prostheses is turned on and turned off. If the functional and safety outcomes of the study are as anticipated by the research team, an application for approval of clinical trials will be submitted to the Federal Drug Administration. Military and Civilian Benefits: This project will positively contribute to development of new rehabilitation options for the US combat casualties and civilians with limb amputations. Merging the technologies of direct skeletal attachment and powered prosthetics creates a new possibility of improving comfort of patients and functionality of prosthetic control with "sensing" the environment. The infection-free body-device interface that will be demonstrated in the proposed translational study will allow for fast transition to clinical trials with the existing myoelectric prostheses. That will eliminate the serious problems for amputees associated with the socket attachment and inefficiency of the surface electrode signal transmission. The technology we are developing has a strong potential to dramatically improve the lives of the patients with upper extremity amputations. It can be further applied to other types of limb amputations in military casualties and in civilian amputees.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 2017
- Source ID
- W81XWH1610791
Entities
People
- Mark Pitkin
Organizations
- United States Army