Sensor-embedded prosthetic monitors gait, detects infection

The Monitoring OsseoIntegrated Prostheses uses a limb which includes a titanium fixture surgically implanted into the femur. Bone grows at the implant’s connection point, leaving  a small metallic connector protruding from the remaining leg.  An accompanying artificial limb then can be attached or detached. The same procedure can be performed for upper limbs.

Advantages include less pain, a fluid walking motion, and a more stable, better-fitting limb. However, infection risk is increased due to the metal profusion. This is meant to be addressed by electrochemical and skin sensors, including a  bio-compatible array embedded within the residual limb. The array tracks changes in body temperature and pH balance, which indicate infection. It also monitors the fit of the bone and prosthetic limb, and the healing process, which could help doctors to speed recuperation.


Join ApplySci at Wearable Tech + Digital Health + Neurotech Silicon Valley on February 26-27, 2018 at Stanford University, featuring:  Vinod KhoslaJustin SanchezBrian OtisBryan JohnsonZhenan BaoNathan IntratorCarla PughJamshid Ghajar – Mark Kendall

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