Science fiction is once again becoming a reality, this time for amputees who soon will be able to get bionic arms.

According to a report on CNN, the DEKA arm has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration after eight years of testing.

And the arm is pretty spectacular.

According to an FDA press release, the DEKA arm is the first that can “perform multiple, simultaneous powered movements controlled by electrical signals from electromyogram (EMG) electrodes.”

The electrodes detect electrical activity from the contraction of muscles where the prosthetic arm is attached. Those are in turn transmitted to a computer within the arm, which in turn translates them into specific actions or movements.

So what does that mean for patients? They now have the option for an arm with an amazing array of abilities, with a more natural arm movement. The DEKA arm only works on amputations at the shoulder joint, mid-upper arm, or mid-lower arm.

According to the FDA, patients were able to complete a variety of tasks that they couldn’t do without the DEKA arm – like using keys and locks. Or preparing food. Or using a zipper, or brushing their hair, or picking up a coin.

Simple actions that most of us take for granted, these amputees now were able to do again on their own, which in turns expands their ability to be independent tremendously.

Video on CNN’s site showed a man using his DEKA arm to move fresh eggs, which he has able to do without breaking it, thanks to the dexterity of the arm.

CNN reports that the arm was nicknamed “Luke” while in development, in homage to the Star Wars character Luke Skywalker, who received a bionic prosthetic after he lost his hand in a duel with Darth Vader in “The Empire Strikes Back,” which was released in 1980.

The DEKA arm is likely the first in what will be many more advances in prosethics, and opens a new realm of possibilities for future developments and advancements. It’s amazing to see something that was once the stuff of science fiction become a reality.

The above story is based on materials by Yuma Sun. 

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