5. First Neuro-Controlled Bionic Arm Cleared in U.S.

5. First Neuro-Controlled Bionic Arm Cleared in U.S.

An FDA news release has announced that the agency has given de novo approval to the Deka Arm System, the first prosthetic arm that can perform multiple, simultaneous powered movements controlled by electrical signals from electromyogram (EMG) electrodes.

The Deka Arm System is about the same size and weight as an adult arm. Its EMG electrodes detect electrical activity caused by the contraction of muscles close to where the prosthesis is attached. The electrodes send electrical signals to a computer processor in the prosthesis. That processor actuates a combination of mechanisms including switches, movement sensors, and force sensors that cause the impulses detected by the EMG electrodes to be translated into up to 10 specific powered movements.

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