Chair: Deanna Gates

Zoom: https://umich.zoom.us/i/98139244180

Abstract:
The loss of an arm can lead to a loss in both dexterity and sensation. Sensation is critical in closing the motor control loop, making fine adjustments, and identifying object properties, however effective sensory feedback is absent from most modern prosthetic devices. Additionally, despite the importance of sensation the literature is sparse on how to quantify and communicate how different prosthetic arms provide their users with sensory feedback. In this dissertation, I sought to develop tools for quantifying and communicating sensation, and applying these tools to characterize sensory feedback enabled via the stimulation of regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces (RPNIs). I started by building a protocol for directly comparing the availability of sensory feedback between individuals using anatomical and prosthetic limbs through their interactions with a simulated object. I then conducted a systematic literature review of methods of electrical stimulation for the purpose of referring sensory feedback to the phantom limb, analyzing trends in methodologies and outcome measures.

I applied the findings of this review in characterizing RPNI-enabled sensation in four individuals with upper limb amputation.

To assess the utility of RPNI-enabled sensation in an actual task, I developed a virtual reality environment for testing bi-directional prosthetic function. Through these investigations, I empirically confirmed previous anecdotal evidence that sensory feedback, particularly force feedback, is more available to individuals using a body-powered prostheses compared to those using myoelectric prostheses. I determined that the current state of the field uses heterogeneous methodologies that make it difficult to compare results between studies, and recommended guidelines for future research.

Finally, I determined that not only do RPNIs provide sensory feedback that is referred to the phantom hand and consistent over time, but that RPNI-enabled sensory feedback has the potential to improve prosthetic function and positively alter an individual's perception of their phantom limb. These findings support previous literature on the importance of sensation for the improvement of prosthetic function and satisfaction in individuals, and encourage future research into the utility of RPNI-enabled sensation. This work also provides future researchers with several tools that ideally make studying sensation in prosthesis users more approachable, in order to accelerate progress toward a prosthesis that can provide users with naturalistic sensation.

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

The Defense for Prince Kuevor will begin soon afterwards at 3:00pm.