Telco Automation has developed an artificial limb that is superior to conventional prosthetic devices. Made of lightweight aluminium and steel, it provides more stability, requires less effort to use, and looks much better

Telco Automation Limited (TAL) has consistently delivered products that offer distinctive value to consumers. TAL has now developed a prosthetic device that can keep the one million-plus Indians with orthopaedic disabilities on their feet, and help them lead active and fruitful lives.

The device, which is a replacement part for the lower limbs, is the only one of its kind available in India. Until now, the only option available in this country to those with orthopaedic handicaps has been conventional ‘exoskeletal systems’, which are shaped from wood in the form of the natural limb and take on the latter’s share of the body weight. The knee joint used in these systems has a single axis and, therefore, making any kind of adjustment is extremely difficult and time-consuming.

The conventional limb is heavy, making its use clumsy and unstable. From the point of view of the healthcare professional, no adjustments can be made during the subsequent life of the prosthesis. The life of the limb is also limited due to the use of wood in its making. The manufacturing process is labour-intensive since every limb is custom-made. This restricts production volumes and results in long waiting periods for these artificial limbs.

The endoskeletal prosthetic system developed by TAL makes a significant departure from the old concept. And it reinforces the company’s principle of applying modern technology in a manner that is suited to Indian conditions in terms of function and cost.

The new system uses a structure of lightweight aluminium and steel that bears the load, and its components can be mass-manufactured. Cosmetic foam lends a lightweight and enhanced cosmetic look to the limb. The knee joint developed provides enhanced stability in any terrain and lowers the effort required to straighten the limb.

"I now walk more confidently since I am no longer afraid of my knee buckling under," says a satisfied user, "and I can walk for longer periods than before due to the ‘spring-assist’ feature (of the product)."

The most important attribute of the product, from the point of view of a prosthetics professional, is that the initial adjustment, as well as those made during the course of the prosthesis, is significantly easier to effect. The prosthetics specialist can devote more time to training the user on the product.

Field trials of the new device are underway following extensive in-house trials on specially developed test set-ups. The product will be available in the market in the first quarter of 2002.