Funding entity Instituto de Salud Carlos III
Participated by Hospital Universitario de Getafe
Peripheral nerve injuries manifest themselves as loss of motor function and loss of sensitivity, which can be very disabling for the patient. Despite the progress made in recent years in reconstructive surgery, the results do not always allow a functional limb. Therefore, myoelectric orthoses (exoskeletons) have been developed to improve the function of the affected limb (also known as bionic reconstruction). Current models are composed of sensors on the skin to communicate muscle contraction to the orthosis, often with a weak and unstable signal for various reasons (movement, sweat, etc.). In addition, the high cost of these orthoses makes it impossible to use them in national health systems such as the one in our country.
The objective of our project is to improve human-machine communication sensors. To this end, we propose four phases: 1. modification of the current electromyography sensors; 2. encapsulation of the sensor with 3D printing with autologous cells; 3. implantation of these sensors in an animal model; 4. pilot study in patients with these lesions with no other therapeutic alternative. Finally, we propose the development and 3D printing of these orthoses in order to reduce their price.
Layman's summary: Design and verification of an implantable and wireless myoelectric signal collection system for the control of exoskeletons (orthoses).
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