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Functional evaluation of quadriplegic patients using a hand neuroprosthesis
C A Wijman1, K C Stroh, C L Van Doren
1Rehabilitation Engineering Program, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Quadriplegic patients using a portable hand neuroprosthesis significantly improved their ability to perform daily activities. The device, utilizing functional neuromuscular stimulation, increased task completion rates from 49% to 89%.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Neuroprosthetics
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Spinal cord injury often results in paralysis, impacting daily living activities.
- Functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) offers a potential solution for restoring grasp.
- Hand neuroprostheses aim to provide synthetic grasp for individuals with paralysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the ability of quadriplegic patients to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) with and without a portable hand neuroprosthesis.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of functional neuromuscular stimulation in restoring hand function.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Inclusion of 22 quadriplegic patients (15 C5, 7 C6 spinal cord injury levels).
- Data collection via telephone interviews, patient records, and videotapes.
Main Results:
- Median success rate for ADLs was 89% with the hand neuroprosthesis versus 49% without.
- All participants demonstrated improved task performance when using the neuroprosthesis.
- C5 spinal cord injury patients showed a greater relative improvement than C6 patients.
Conclusions:
- Portable hand neuroprostheses significantly enhance the ability of quadriplegic individuals to perform daily activities.
- Functional neuromuscular stimulation is an effective method for restoring grasp and improving independence.
- The degree of functional improvement may vary based on the level of spinal cord injury.