Bionic limbs controlled by brain signals: a step forward for amputees

Recent advances in bionic limb technology have brought us closer to a reality once imagined in science fiction. A recent clinical trial demonstrated a revolutionary method that increases the integration of bionic prostheses into the human body. Scientists have developed a technique for surgically reconstructing muscle pairs that allows amputees to control robotic limbs using brain signals, increasing their ability to more easily negotiate obstacles and stairs.

Anatomical approach

Traditionally, in prosthetic design, the human body has been viewed as a limitation. However, bioengineer Tyler Clites, now at the University of California, Los Angeles, suggests an “anatomical” approach that integrates the body with machines. This technique reconfigures muscles, bones and nerves, creating a more natural communication path between the bionic limb and the nervous system. Using biological elements, prostheses can mimic natural movement and proprioception – the body’s awareness of its position and movement.

Agonist-antagonist myoneural interface (AMI)

The agonist-antagonist myo-neural interface (AMI) technique is at the forefront of this integration. By reconstructing pairs of muscles, recipients can perceive the movements of the prosthetic limb as natural sensations. In a recent study, people who had undergone AMI surgery had a 40% increase in walking speed, similar to the rate of people who had not undergone amputation.

Innovations in prosthetic integration

Moreover, osseointegration techniques, which involve attaching the prosthesis directly to the bone using titanium screws, provide greater comfort and stability compared to traditional sockets. Innovations such as targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) and regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNI) also improve control and feedback of prosthetic limbs.

Application

As these techniques continue to be refined, the vision of seamlessly integrated, brain-controlled bionic limbs becomes more and more tangible, bringing hope and a better quality of life to amputees around the world.