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Pattern recognition control of multifunction myoelectric prostheses by patients with congenital transradial limb
Michael Kryger1, Aimee E Schultz, Todd Kuiken
1Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Background:
Electromyography (EMG) pattern recognition offers the potential for improved control of multifunction myoelectric prostheses. However, it is unclear whether this technology can be successfully used by congenital amputees.
Objective:
The purpose of this investigation was to assess the ability of congenital transradial amputees to control a virtual multifunction prosthesis using EMG pattern recognition and compare their performance to that of acquired amputees from a previous study.
Study Design:
Preliminary cross-sectional study.
Methods:
Four congenital transradial amputees trained and tested a linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier with four wrist movements, five hand movements, and a no-movement class. Subjects then tested the classifier in real time using a virtual arm.
Results:
Performance metrics for the residual limb were poorer than those with the intact limb (classification accuracy: 52.1% ± 15.0% vs. 93.2% ± 15.8%; motion-completion rate: 49.0%± 23.0% vs. 84.0% ± 9.4%; motion-completion time: 2.05 ± 0.75 s vs. 1.13 ± 0.05 s, respectively). On average, performance with the residual limb by congenital amputees was reduced compared to that reported for acquired transradial amputees. However, one subject performed similarly to acquired amputees.
Conclusions:
Pattern recognition control may be a viable option for some congenital amputees. Further study is warranted to determine success factors.
