A new brain-controlled bionic prosthesis is transforming the lives of amputees, allowing them to walk faster and with greater stability on uneven terrain. Developed by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), this innovative prosthesis uses signals from the residual muscles of the leg to operate an electric ankle, providing natural foot movements.
The study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, involved 14 participants with below-knee amputations, seven of whom received the bionic prosthesis after a special surgery that preserves crucial muscle connections. This surgical technique, known as agonist-antagonist myoneural interface (AMI), allows for more intuitive control of the prosthesis, reducing pain and muscle atrophy.
The results were impressive: users of the bionic prosthesis walked 41% faster than those with conventional prosthetics. Additionally, they demonstrated greater ease in climbing stairs and overcoming obstacles, thanks to the integration of nerve signals with the robotic system of the prosthesis.
Professor Hugh Herr, the study leader and a double amputee himself, highlighted the emotional importance of this technology, which allows users to feel the prosthesis as a natural extension of their body. According to Herr, the bionic prosthesis offers a more natural movement experience, without the need for conscious thought, representing a significant advancement over traditional prosthetics.
The MIT team hopes that this technology will be commercially available within five years, aiming to revolutionize clinical care for amputees worldwide. The bionic prosthesis not only improves mobility but also offers new hope for amputees who wish to regain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives.