Published On Thu Feb 09 2012 A novel artificial knee joint for lower-limb amputations: a functional and affordable technology for low- and middle-income coun from Grand Challenges Canada on Vimeo.
Research scientist Jan Andrysek displays the L.C. (Low Cost) mechanical knee that was created at the Bloorview rehab centre over the last six years.
RICK EGLINTON/TORONTO STAR
If a man loses his leg in Sierra Leone — from the blast of a land mine or in a horrific car accident — chances are he will not be able to get an artificial limb.
Those used in Canada and the U.S. are too expensive, costing many thousands of dollars each. And if a limb were available, it would likely be too primitive for him to use.
But Jan Andrysek, a scientist at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, has developed a cheap and functional artificial limb for those who have had their leg amputated above the knee.
It costs just $50. Comparable limbs have a $3,000 price tag.
