Written by Pamela Udejimba 

Due to recent rapid technological breakthroughs, the field of prosthetics has advanced significantly. Patients who have lost a limb or experienced a crippling accident can now benefit from prosthetic devices that are more complex and advanced than ever before, giving them a wider range of motion and function. These developments have had a substantial impact on patient care, improving peoples independence and quality of life. 

The development of myoelectric prostheses has been among the most important developments in prosthetics. These devices enable prosthetic limb control with the patients muscle movements by utilising electromyography (EMG) sensors to monitor electrical signals produced by muscles in the residual limb. The functionality and natural motion of prosthetic limbs have been substantially enhanced by this technology, making them more responsive and user-friendly. There have also been substantial improvements in the materials and design of prosthetic devices in addition to myoelectric prostheses. Prosthetic limbs can now be made from new, lightweight materials that are both extraordinarily strong and comfortable for patients to wear, such as titanium and carbon fibre. Using 3D printing technology allows for the development of more precise and customised prosthetic devices to fit the unique anatomy of each patient.

The creation of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which enable patients to operate their prosthetic limbs with their thoughts, is yet another field of prosthetics advancement. Electrodes are implanted in the brain which allows the detection of neural signals and the transmission of those signals to a computer, which can subsequently be translated into movements of the prosthetic limb. However, BCIs, are still in the early phases of development and have a lot of potentials to enhance the usability and functionality of prosthetic devices in the future.

The impacts of these advancements on healthcare cannot be over-emphasised. Todays prosthetic technologies can provide users with a level of independence and functionality that was previously unattainable. The ease and confidence with which patients may carry out daily activities can improve their mental health and general well-being. Also, patients may be able to maintain or regain their mobility with the help of prosthetic limbs. With continued research and innovation, prosthetic devices will continue to improve the lives and well-being of patients. Read more