Evaluation of implantable epimysial electrodes as possible interface to control myoelectric hand prostheses

The loss of an extremity, for instance an arm, is a dramatic event resulting in a significant handicap of the quality of life for the person concerned. Prosthetic devices often lack adequate control mechanism, limiting their impact on activities of daily life. The acquisition of myoelectric signals from the Musculus deltoideus of a rhesus monkey is described. Such signals are aimed to be used as control signal for an active myoelectric hand prosthesis. For recording, implantable flexible, polyimide-based microelectrodes were placed epimysially on the muscle. EMG signals were recorded during voluntary goal-directed movements of the arm, and analyzed with respect to signal amplitude and frequency. First results are described, and an outlook for future electrode design is given.