A group of European researchers has developed a bionic hand with a tactile sensitivity. Through integrated and connected sensors to the peripheral nerves, it allows the wearer to regain the sense of touch. An innovation that opens the way to more efficient prostheses able to reproduce the sensations, besides replacing a part of the body.
This artificial hand has been placed on Dennis Sorensen, a left arm amputated after an accident. The researchers first implanted electrodes within the nerves of the arm before attaching the prosthesis. Result, the owner is able to feel again the objects that he handles. Besides grabbing items easily by adjusting its strength, it is also able to identify the shape and texture just by touch.
The operation is quite simple: this incredible technology uses sensors in the prosthetic device to pick up information about touch. This data is then converted into impulses which his nerves can interpret. The signals are sent through wires into four electrodes that were surgically implanted into what remains of Dennis’s arm nerves.
Scientists are now working to improve the sensitivity of the bionic device and to complete further tests before recommending its use worldwide. However, we must wait a few years before we can see it on the market.
