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LTI VariGrip III Features Multi-Device Control
By William Hanson The latest advance in microprocessor technology for powered
upper-limb prosthetic systems is the Programmable VariGrip" III
Multi-Device Prosthetic Controller from LTI. This controller
operates up to four powered prosthetic devices using a control
strategy tailored to the user. The system adapts to the patient,
rather than requiring the patient to adapt to the controller, thus
reducing training time and increasing functionality. Since it is
programmable, the clinician can quickly adjust it through his
personal computer.
The VariGrip III is light weight (11 grams) and smallabout half
the size of competitive controllersmaking it ideal for adults' and
children's prostheses. It can be concealed in the prosthesis and,
when combined with built-in batteries, results in improved cosmetic
appearance.
Universal Controller
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VariGrip III Multi-Device Controller |
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The controller is universal and operates devices
from any manufacturer, even systems with a mix of components from
several manufacturers. This means that prosthetists can choose the
best combination of products for users' individual needs.
Traditionally, prosthetic controllers were designed to perform
one function. Early microprocessor-based controllers were similar,
since they were preprogrammed to perform a specific task. However,
they did allow the prosthetist to make adjustments for the
individual user.
The new VariGrip III Controller takes this one step further. In
addition to the adjustment capabilities, it can be programmed with
a variety of control strategies, making it easier for the user to
operate the system. These strategies are downloaded by the
clinician to the prosthetic system. This allows the prosthetist to
try several strategies with the user and to choose the one best
suited for the user's particular needs.
Once a strategy is chosen, the controller is fine-tuned through
software-adjustable settings, providing significantly more
adjustment than previously offered with prosthetic controllers. The
result is a control strategy and user-specific adjustments that
allow the user to obtain maximum performance and functionality.
Controller Evaluates Patients
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Patient Evaluation using MyoAssistant™ |
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The VariGrip III Controller has an additional
feature: the ability to evaluate patients to determine which
control strategy would be best for them. The patient evaluation
tells the prosthetist if the patient has sufficient muscle signal
strength and coordination to operate the prosthetic system
myoelectrically. If not, the VariGrip III Controller can be
reprogrammed to use a different input device. Input device options
include myoelectrodes, Touch Pads", switches, or a linear
transducer. Again the most suitable input device is chosen to
accommodate the user.
The VariGrip III Controller uses proprietary software MyoWizard"
and MyoAssistant". MyoWizard provides 16 control strategies, along
with a complete description of their features and benefits. To
select one, the prosthetist simply highlights the preferred
strategy and downloads it to the VariGrip III Controller. If the
user is not satisfied with this control strategy, the prosthetist
selects a different strategy until the best one if found. Once a
suitable strategy has been chosen, MyoAssistant is used to make
necessary adjustments to the system. This results in a custom
control system that is optimal for the individual user.
Additional control strategies are being developed and will be
added in the next release of the software, scheduled for the first
quarter of 2003.
Last year, a new HCPCS L-Code was issued for
microprocessor-based prosthetic controllers. Code L-6882,
"microprocessor control feature, addition to upper-limb prosthetic
terminal device," provides additional reimbursement for this new
technology.
For more information, contact Liberating Technologies,
800.437.0024 or visit www.liberatingtech.com 
Table Of Contents - February 2003
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