Limb differences are more common than what is thought and a significant population is living with this condition. Limb differences is a condition when an arm or leg is not shaped in the normal way or limb i.e. the arms or legs may be might be shorter than the other or missing or deformed. Limb differences can be congenital, when a child is born with it, or acquired, that happens after birth due to any trauma or injury.

People living with limb loss face unique challenges ranging from immobility to depression and financial hardships. In this situation receiving a prosthesis may come to aid and help alleviate some of these challenges. A prosthetic implant, i.e. an artificial device that replaces a missing body part, can ensure the restoration of functional mobility, and optimize the person’s quality of life and satisfaction.

3D printing technologies and Additive Manufacturing

3D printing technologies with Additive manufacturing have an interesting aspect in this field of prosthetics. These technologies use data computer-aided design (CAD) software or 3D object scanners to direct hardware to deposit material, layer upon layer, in particular geometric forms.

As opposed to traditional means, i.e. removing material through milling, machining, etc additive manufacturing adds material to create an object. It also has advantages like lightweight and compact designs as well as it is easy to manufacture. It is assessed that this manufacturing technology in the future may play a significant role in replacing human organ transplants, and significantly speeding-up surgical procedures.

Neural prostheses and Bionics

Advancements in Bionics, replication of biological systems by mechanical and electronic systems, and Neural prostheses, assistive devices that restore lost neurological functions, have led to brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) that can restore communication or motor function to individuals. The researchers have designed a soft, lightweight, and low-cost neuroprosthetic hand. The hand designed with a system for tactile feedback can restore some of the primitive sensations in a volunteer’s residual limb and can help perform daily activities, such as switching lights on, zipping a suitcase, driving cars, etc.

This solution is being deployed at various levels in the healthcare industry and has been certified by the public institutions. To know the details and discuss more on this as well as other evolving solutions in multiple domains please write to us at open-innovator@quotients.com.