(Photo: Hand-Exoskeleton Device RoboExo SMART^TM )

New Delhi: Stroke is a debilitating condition that severely impacts the brain functions of the patient, making him/her paralyzed for the rest of the life. This life-altering affliction has found a revolutionary and powerful solution in the world of medical technology. IIT Delhi, backed by the unwavering support of SERB, DIA-CoE, Ministry of Defense, and ICMR, has unveiled a groundbreaking human-computer interface hand-exoskeleton device named RoboExo SMART^TM.

This transformative Robotic Exoskeleton device for upper limb rehabilitation was designed and developed by drawing upon the wealth of knowledge from Prof. (Dr.) Amit Mehndiratta, and dedicated efforts by Dr. Neha Singh along with a committed team in the Centre of Biomedical Engineering (CBME) at IIT Delhi, to alleviate the paralyzing effects of strokes.

The device has undergone various stages of evaluation and is currently in its pivotal stage of national clinical validation under the leadership of Dr. M.V. Padma Srivastava, Head of Neurology and Chief of CN Center at AIIMS, New Delhi.

Exoskeleton device RoboExo SMART^TM is now poised for its next significant phase—clinical trial studies for international acceptability in collaboration with Proxmed Pty. Ltd.- an Australian entity committed to driving healthcare innovations with the great support of global expert Prof. Mark Parsons, Department of Medicine and Neurology, Liverpool Hospital, University of New South Wales, Australia.

“The collaboration with Proxmed Pty. Ltd. Australia heralds an exciting chapter. The exoskeleton's journey to Australian shores for clinical trials marks a pivotal step towards global recognition and efficacy validation. Together, both entities will propel stroke rehabilitation into an era of unparalleled possibilities”, said Prof. (Dr.) Amit Mehndiratta, Centre of Biomedical Engineering (CBME), IIT Delhi.

This remarkable collaboration has been made possible through the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT)- an industry-academia interface at IIT Delhi.

Conventional rehabilitation methods often fall short in treating stroke patients, with physiotherapy proving labor-intensive and subjective assessment. However, IIT Delhi's exoskeleton device, made possible by dedicated funding, introduces an advanced approach.

The exoskeleton synchronizes wrist and finger joint movements, significantly enhancing daily functions and minimizing muscle rigidity. Its muscle activity-controlled interface, adaptable settings, and real-time performance feedback promise a journey toward swifter recovery.

This trailblazing device uniquely addresses size and cost concerns plaguing conventional robotic solutions. Portable, lightweight, and cost-effective, it opens doors for widespread accessibility, especially in resource-restricted regions.

Under the leadership of Dr. M. V. Padma Srivastava and Prof. Amit Mehndiratta  the exoskeleton has showcased remarkable enhancements in mobility and reduced muscle rigidity through successful trials involving over sixty patients at AIIMS's Neurology Department. These results underscore the exoskeleton's potential to revolutionize the field of rehabilitation.

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