Scientists from the UK and Switzerland have developed a technology that allows amputees to feel the wetness of an object touched by a prosthesis. The results of the research were published in the journal Advanced Intelligent Systems (Advanced Intel. System).
The technology that restores moisture sensitivity to patients with prosthetic hands is the sensor attached to the prosthesis. It is connected to a stimulator that touches the stump and transmits the sensation of moisture through the skin. Development took about ten years.
“We think this is likely to affect amputees’ dexterity when using a prosthetic limb. For example, humidity levels affect how strongly you hold something: If a glass is wet, it can be slippery,” the scientists explained.
The authors of the development also believe that this will increase patient acceptance of the prosthesis: they will be able to feel that the prosthesis belongs to their body. Scientists are currently trying to prove this hypothesis.
Previous scientists restored Rat joints using stem cell-derived cartilage.