BENOIT PORTETS OBTAINED A BRAND NEW BIONIC PROSTHESIS

Benoit Portets (21) from Bordeaux, France, was born with a forearm limb difference. He had a prosthesis that he deemed insufficiently functional and aesthetic. The University of Talence student was interested in the bionic prosthesis Hero Arm, because of its lightweight. Benoit was sure that it would play an instrumental role in his academic activities and internships to come. 

Benoit said: “In the past, I used a myoelectric prosthesis that was limited to a hook grip. I did not use it a lot as it was too heavy. I believe the Hero Arm would help me in the future with my work activities. At present, I would also like a new prosthesis to help me with daily tasks such, as opening a bottle, brushing my teeth, tying my shoelaces, or cooking”.

The clinical team considered the Hero Arm to best match the patient’s expectations in terms of both function and aesthetics. With assistance from the Red Line Foundation, Benoit Portets got his new prosthesis. He explained: ”It’s an amazing device, so innovative. I think this type of device is the future for upper-limb amputees”.

It is important to point out that the main cause for the non-use of prosthesis is often their weight, since they are usually too heavy. Open Bionics have worked hard to address this issue promising that all of their devices will weight less than 1kg, which could make a real difference for patients. Special sensors within the bionic prosthesis detect muscle movements, meaning that it is possible to effortlessly control the bionic hand with intuitive, life-like precision. The process of rehabilitation is shorter and easier for the patient. 

The Red Line team sincerely hopes that the acquisition of a modern bionic device will make Benoit's life as normal as possible and that his wishes will come true.