Amputees Merge with New Limbs

Advancements in prosthetic technology continue to amaze me, we've seen everything from 3d printing low-cost limbs to advanced robotics incorporated into new designs. 

What struck me in the new work from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and SensArs Neuroprosthetics was when they used the word 'merge.' 

Researchers are currently conducting clinical trials of a bionic limb. One of the test subjects lost his leg in a motorcycle accident. Now, because of this novel neuroprosthetic leg technology, he can feel his leg and foot as if it were his own. 

According to the researchers, the difference is the electrodes. Instead of wrapping the electrodes around the patient's remaining nerves, they surgically pierce them.

When blindfolded, the patients could tell when they touched his big toe and heel. He could even describe how much his knee flexed.

So now, the patients don't need to think about it when they are walking around. They just walk, which is also less mentally taxing. 

Exciting work has come out of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. After all, they're also the ones behind artificial skin.

Next, the researchers hope to conduct a longer study with more patients. The tech could soon improve the lives of the millions of people who have suffered an amputation.