Breakthrough Technology Benefits Stroke and Neurological Patients
GREENVILLE — By helping stroke victims regain hand control and grasp objects, they can now master tasks once believed impossible, thanks to highly sophisticated technology now available at Delta Regional Medical Center.
Through a partnership with Bioness Inc., the rural hospital is among the first in the nation to offer the breakthrough therapy and serve as a regional evaluation and treatment site for patients interested in trying out the new device. “We have integrated this technology into both our acute inpatient rehab program and into our outpatient setting,” said Stephanie Kent, director of musculoskeletal services at Delta Regional. “The L300 and H200 complement and accelerate traditional therapy. By adopting this technology as a standard of care, we can maximize rehabilitation by using the device between therapy sessions and where indicated, even encourage patients to purchase and use in the home setting.” Central nervous system injuries as a result of stroke, brain injury, incomplete spinal cord injury, or even multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy often result in foot drop and gait abnormality, leading to instability and difficulty walking.
The NESS L300(tm) neuro-rehabilitation system is a revolution in Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) technology, designed to help patients experiencing foot drop to regain mobility and help “normalize” walking and gait. The L300 uses wireless communication to “talk” to its components, eliminating cumbersome wires and allowing the clinician the ability to fine-tune settings while the patient is actually walking. This user-friendly system is appropriate for a broad range of conditions, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and incomplete spinal cord injury.
The NESS H200 neuro-rehabilitation system achieves rehabilitation of the upper extremity using the same FES technology as the L300 prosthesis uses on the lower extremity. The H200 consists of a soft polymer fitting that rests over the patient’s hand and forearm. Five surface electrodes that stimulate muscles in the hand and wrist are embedded in the device. A microprocessor allows the user to program the device with a series of exercises customized for each patient.
“Clinical trials support the effectiveness of the NESS H200 in facilitating return of function for patients in the acute phase of recovery following stroke and brain injury, as well as for select patients whose injuries are years old,” noted Kent.
In September, Delta Regional, founded in the 1950s to serve residents in Washington County, celebrated the grand opening of the newly expanded and improved Emergency Room and Maternal Child Center, and the Heart & Vascular Center.
The NESS L300™ neuro-rehabilitation system is an advanced Functional Electrical System (FES) that may help patients regain mobility. This wireless, user-friendly technology can be easily integrated into acute, outpatient and home settings. Patients using the L300 may show a range of results, including increased gait speed, improved stability and symmetry, increased blood circulation, and improved range of motion.
The NESS H200™ combines and accelerates traditional steps in upper extremity rehabilitation. Five surface electrodes stimulate and activate the hand with a patient-friendly and easy-to-use system for use in the hospital, in an outpatient setting, or at home. Clinical trials show consistent use of the NESS H200 may provide patients with improved hand function and voluntary movement (for those with upper limb paralysis due to hemiplegic stroke or C5 spinal cord injury). It may also facilitate neuromuscular re-education, increase or maintain range of motion, increase local blood circulation and reduce spasticity, and prevent or retard atrophy.
LYNNE JETER
