Prosthetic control by lower limb amputees using implantable myoelectric sensors

Abstract

When a lower extremity is lost the primary and obvious effect is the loss of the mechanical support of weight bearing when standing and walking. Additionally there are loses of sensation for the lost leg, the sensation for interaction of the leg with its environment as well the central nervous system motor control of the leg in response to these sensations and for the purpose of locomotion. All of these losses affect quality of live negatively in many different ways, a parameter that is accepted valid for economic decision making since its improvements are highly associates with increased mobility. Reestablishing the central nervous system connection of bionic prosthesis is the next lower limb prosthetic challenge. Here we present the first cases of amputees gaining voluntary control of commercially available microprocessor controlled lower limb prosthesis using implantable myoelectric sensors.