Using micro-electrodes to control prosthetic limbs and provide sensory feedback for amputees
Official title: Can an Array of Micro-electrodes Implanted in a Human Nerve Record Neural Signals and Provide Sensory Feedback Useful for Controlling a Prosthetic Device?
Run by University of Utah · NCT05505513 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if tiny electrodes can help amputees control advanced prosthetic arms and feel sensations like touch.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 3 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 21, 2020 |
| Main results expected | December 2028 |
| Study ends | December 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05505513 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 with unilateral or bilateral traumatic or elective upper extremity amputations at the transradial level.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are incarcerated, pregnant, unable to consent, or have psychiatric comorbidities or medical conditions that increase anesthesia risks may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the feasibility of using percutaneous Utah Slanted Electrode Arrays (pUSEAs) implanted in the peripheral nerves and EMG electrodes in the muscles of patients with upper-limb amputations. The goal is to assess whether these microelectrodes can effectively record neural signals and provide sensory feedback to control advanced prosthetic devices like the DEKA LUKE arm. The study will evaluate the ability of the HAPTIX System to enhance the functionality of prosthetic limbs, allowing for more natural movements and sensations of touch and proprioception. This early feasibility study aims to improve the quality of life for amputees by enabling better control over their prosthetic devices.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the control and sensory experience of prosthetic limbs for amputees.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using neural interfaces for prosthetic control, indicating potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * at least 18 years of age and less than 65 years of age * unilateral and bilateral traumatic or elective upper extremity amputations at the transradial level Exclusion Criteria: * incarceration * pregnancy * inability to consent * psychiatric comorbidity * medical conditions that significantly increase the risk of adverse effects of general anesthesia
Where it's running
-
The University Orthopaedic Center
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Douglas Hutchinson, M.D. — University of Utah Orthopaedics
- Study coordinator: Douglas Hutchinson, M.D.
- Email: Douglas.Hutchinson@hsc.utah.edu
- Phone: 801-587-5400
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Comparing powered and mechanical prosthetic knees for K2-level amputees
This study is testing whether powered prosthetic knees work better than mechanical ones for K2-level amputees to help improve their mobility and make better choices for future prosthetic designs.
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Effect of EMG sensor number and placement on control of below-elbow prosthetic arms
This project will test whether changing the number and placement of myoelectric sensors helps adults with below-elbow limb absence control a prosthetic arm better while wearing a real device.
-
Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knees for limited community ambulators with above-knee amputation.
This test will see if switching to a microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee reduces fall-related health problems and improves walking speed, mobility, and quality of life for adults with above-knee amputations who are limited community ambulators compared with non-microprocessor knees.
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Understanding the impact of powered prosthetics on walking for transfemoral amputees
This study is testing whether powered knee and ankle prosthetics can help transfemoral amputees walk better, especially when combined with special training.
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Evaluation of a new myoelectric prosthesis for transradial amputees
This study is testing a new type of prosthetic arm that uses a special implant to help people with below-the-elbow amputations control it more easily and naturally.
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Hand prosthesis usability and performance evaluation for people with upper limb absence
This study tests a new multi-articulating hand prosthesis to see if it performs better or differently than a participant’s own prosthesis.
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.