CD Laboratory for Restoration of Extremity Function

The aim of the research is to improve the integration of prosthetic systems into the body image of affected patients. On the one hand, the attachment of prostheses to the body is being optimised and, on the other, the motor controls of prostheses and their sensitive feedback to the body are being further developed.

Modern prosthetic systems are a valuable addition to biological reconstructive measures for restoring limb functions. The harmonious integration of the prosthesis into the patient's body is a real challenge. Thanks to intensive research activities in the field of so-called bionic reconstruction, significant progress has been made in recent years, which is being built upon here.

The concept of bionic reconstruction combines a variety of different surgical procedures. These surgically alter the patient's anatomy in such a way that they are able to intuitively control highly complex mechatronic devices and receive the best possible replacement for the lost positions of their limbs.

A key research objective is to enable the most intuitive control modules possible for the new, bionic body part. This is ensured by complex neuromuscular reconstructions and thus supports the best possible control of the prostheses by artificially providing new or additional signals for muscle control.

Work is also being done to improve the mechanical fixation of a prosthesis to the body. Implantable systems offer good prospects here. For example, partially implanted systems are being further developed for use with incomplete hand amputations. However, implants that are fully integrated into the body also offer good fixation of the prosthesis in combination with specially designed anchors and are therefore being researched.

The simultaneous control of several joints and positions of a single upper limb prosthesis is another research goal. For lower limb prostheses, on the other hand, research is focussing on gait safety. The fact that future prostheses should provide patients with feedback on relevant status information is also taken into account. For example, information about the relative position to the body is important for the position of upper limb prostheses, while for lower limb prostheses, information about the load is highly relevant to safety. Targeted sensory reinnervation (TSR), which involves connecting the prosthesis to the patient's nervous system, is being researched further for both areas.

The optimisation of sensors that allow neuromuscular activity to be recorded is also being researched. In fact, sensors that are fixed to the surface of the skin are already being used for this purpose. However, fully implanted sensors would be less susceptible to interference from movements and changing skin conditions.

This research focussing on technical innovations is accompanied by developments that focus on the actual benefits for patients. Specialised computer-assisted rehabilitation protocols are being developed as well as specific evaluation methods.

Overall, the research will help to ensure that future prostheses enable patients to live with fewer and fewer restrictions.