Article

Neuroprosthetic systems based on functional electrical stimulation aim to restore
motor function to individuals with paralysis following spinal cord injury.
Identifying the optimal electrode set for the neuroprosthesis is complicated
because it depends on the characteristics of the individual (such as injury
level), the force capacities of the muscles, the movements the system aims to
restore, and the hardware limitations (number and type of electrodes available).
An electrode-selection method has been developed that uses a customized
musculoskeletal model. Candidate electrode sets are created based on desired
functional outcomes and the hard ware limitations of the proposed system.
Inverse-dynamic simulations are performed to determine the proportion of target
movements that can be accomplished with each set; the set that allows the most
movements to be performed is chosen as the optimal set. The technique is
demonstrated here for a system recently developed by our research group to
restore whole-arm movement to individuals with high-level tetraplegia. The
optimal set included selective nerve-cuff electrodes for the radial and
musculocutaneous nerves; single-channel cuffs for the axillary, suprascapular,
upper subscapular, and long-thoracic nerves; and muscle-based electrodes for the
remaining channels. The importance of functional goals, hardware limitations,
muscle and nerve anatomy, and surgical feasibility are highlighted.

Langue : ANGLAIS