Frequently Asked Questions | |
Grip patterns
Q: Why are different grip patterns important?
A: Traditional myoelectric devices grip through one configuration, with the index and middle finger meeting the thumb in opposition. This system is powered by one motor and offers only one grip pattern. Many of these traditional devices have to generate a stronger-than-human grip force at the tip, where the fingers meet, in order to successfully hold heavy or odd-shaped items. The articulating fingers of the i-LIMB Hand and ProDigits wrap around objects in a compliant grip; this is more lifelike and provides a stronger grip with less force and power consumption.
A: A key feature of the i-LIMB Hand is the rotating thumb. By means of manually positioning, the thumb can be rotated 110 degrees allowing for different grips, the majority of which have not been possible before.
These grips include:
Power Grip (Cylindrical)
Achieved by rotating the thumb fully into palmar adduction. Used for picking up cans, briefcases and shopping bags with a fully enclosing grip.
Precision Grip (Fine Tip)
Achieved by rotating the thumb in direct opposition to the index finger. Used for picking up small objects or to hold objects while performing fine motor tasks.
Key Grip (Lateral)
Achieved by rotating the thumb fully into palmar abduction, parallel to the digits. Used for turning a key in a lock or for holding items such as a plate or a business card.
Spherical Grasp
Achieved by rotating the thumb in direct opposition to the index fingers (palmar adduction) for smaller spherical objects and in various degrees of palmar abduction for larger spherical objects. Used for holding a ball, an apple or other round objects.
Hook Grip
Normally achieved by placing the thumb fully into a palmar abducted position where the thumb rests on the side of the first digit when a flexion signal is provided. For situations when the user desires a more secure hook grip, the user can place the thumb in a more palmar adducted position to create a modified cylindrical grip between the thumb and index finger. Used for holding the handle on a suitcase, briefcase or duffel bag.
Palmar Grasp
Achieved by placing the thumb in a palmar abducted position, allowing the thumb to provide direct opposition to an object such as book binding or a person’s hand.
Additionally, stall detection to the motors of the i-LIMB Hand and preprogrammed software adjustments can allow patients to perform simple tasks and improve functionality. Examples include providing resistance to an individual digit such as the index finger to allow for and index point. Additionally preprogramming of software allowing for thumb parking, instructing the thumb to close down against the side of the hand to allow a jacket to be put on.
Q: Can you perform the same grips with a ProDigits partial hand solution?
A: Partial hand is more complex as every patient need is different. In many traumatic cases, there will some part of missing fingers remaining. Often the thumb remains and this is very advantageous for when it comes to creating an opposition post for grips. So, many of the desired grips are possible but are dependent upon each patient case.
Controlling the i-LIMB Hand
A: The i-LIMB Hand relies on some of the most advanced control software yet seen in the prosthetics industry. This software provides speed and grip-strength control to the device though the patients existing muscles of the effected limb. These muscles generate signals to control the device in the same way that traditional myoelectric devices have operated in the past.
Q: Is surgery required? Does it connect to nerves?
A: No. A traditional myoelectric system is employed utilizing two small metal electrode plates, which detect minute electrical signals generated by the remaining muscles in the residual limb. These electrode plates are placed against the surface of the skin and amplify the signal received sending the signals onto the hand. Traditionally, one electrode is placed on the top of the forearm and the other on the bottom.
Q: Is the i-LIMB Hand controlled by thought?
A: Not exactly however the i-LIMB Hand is controlled utilizing electrical impulses from the muscles of the forearm. Patients usually have a sensation that their severed hand still exists despite it being amputated, something often referred to as phantom sensation. When encouraged to generate a strong signal, patients are often asked to move and flex their missing hand at the wrist which in turn generates a strong control signal. Before too long, these reflexes become intuitive, and the i-LIMB Hand and patient interact in a symbiotic way.
Q: What is the i-LIMB Hand?
A: The hand is the world’s first commercially available multi-articulating bionic hand. It has 5 independently powered digits that open and close around objects. It supports amputees in going about their everyday lives. In medicine, bionics means the replacement or enhancement of organs or other body parts by mechanical means.
Q: What are ProDigits?
A: ProDigits, short for Prosthetic Digits, are the self-contained digits that are individually powered and controlled to provide new fingers for partial hand patients. The i-LIMB Hand is effectively a chassis for five ProDigits. Individual ProDigits are used for patients who have lost part of their hand and/or a whole finger or fingers.
Q: How long does it take to create a LIVINGSKIN prosthesis?
A: Fabrication of each custom silicone prosthesis is very labor-intensive. Most LIVINGSKIN prostheses take approximately 8-16 weeks to create. An off- the-shelf customized version of the i-LIMB high definition covering is also available with a selection of 10 different colors.
Patients
Q: How long does it take to learn to use the i-LIMB Hand or ProDigits?
A: myoelectric users are able to get started immediately. We recommend utilizing the skills of a skilled Occupational Therapist. By doing so, patients are encouraged to utilize the higher levels of function that are possible with the i-LIMB Hand and ProDigits. Training times are relatively short, usually taking around five days to introduce the full control functions. Mastery will vary from individual to individual based on their specific life needs.
Q: Is there a product for children?
A: At thi
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