How two myoelectric control methods affect attention and daily function for people with below-the-elbow amputation
Official title: Comparing the Attentional Demands and Functional Outcomes of Pattern Recognition and Direct Myoelectric Control in People With Transradial Amputation
Run by Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT07075042 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests whether pattern recognition control or traditional two-site direct myoelectric control is easier to use and more helpful for adults with below-the-elbow (transradial) limb loss when using a prosthesis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Virginia Commonwealth University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Austin, Texas and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 2, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 2027 |
| Study ends | December 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07075042 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18 or older with unilateral transradial limb loss at least six months prior, who have used a myoelectric device for three months or more, wear a prosthesis at least four days per week, can read and write English, and are willing to use each control strategy as their primary device for three months.
✕Probably not a fit
People with bilateral limb loss, those less than six months post-amputation, those who discontinued myoelectric prosthesis use for medical or other non-financial reasons, or anyone unable or unwilling to commit to six months of participation may not receive benefit from joining.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Adults with unilateral transradial amputation who already use a myoelectric prosthesis will be trained to use both pattern recognition control (PRC) and traditional two-site direct control (DC). Participants will use each control method as their primary device for three months, with structured training followed by community and home use and periodic outcome testing. Outcome measures will include functional task performance, measures of attentional demand during prosthesis use, and user-reported ease of use and satisfaction. The crossover design enables direct within-subject comparison between PRC, which uses multiple EMG channels and pattern-classification algorithms, and DC, which relies on two-site EMG amplitude and switching.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make myoelectric prosthesis control feel more natural, reduce mental effort, and improve day-to-day function for people with transradial limb loss.
How similar studies have gone: Pattern recognition systems are clinically established and prior work suggests they can be more intuitive and support a broader range of motions than two-site direct control, though direct long-term home-use comparisons remain relatively limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age or older * Unilateral transradial limb loss * At least 6 months since loss * Previous or current use of a myoelectric device for 3 months or longer * Use of a prosthesis at least 4 days each week * Ability to read, write, and understand English * Willingness to use each control strategy as primary device for 3 months each (6 months commitment total) Exclusion Criteria: * Any health condition that would prevent safely completing trial activities * Discontinued use of a myoelectric prosthesis due to non-financial reasons
Where it's running
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Hanger Inc.
Austin, Texas, United States Recruiting -
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Benjamin Darter — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Shane R. Wurdeman, PhD
- Email: swurdeman@hanger.com
- Phone: 281-829-4746
Similar studies
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.