Monika More set to get two pairs of prosthetic limbs

Monika is reportedly the first to get one-of-its-kind myoelectric prosthetic limbs in the country. A myoelectric-controlled prosthesis is a battery-operated artificial limb that can be controlled with impulses generated naturally by muscles.

The only disadvantage is its weight, which ranges between 1.2 to1.5 kgs.

Abhishek Kumar, patient care head at Otto Bock, Chembur-based centre where both pairs of Monika’s limbs are being engineered, said, “Myoelectric limbs are slightly heavier because of the battery’s weight. Cosmetic limbs, on the other hand, weigh 750 grams each. It will be slightly difficult to wear myoelectric limbs all the time.”

Kumar said cosmetic limbs look more natural and can perform basic functions of holding objects.

Bhosale, who has been treating Monika since she was brought to the hospital, said that since myoelectric limbs were specially customized for the 16-year-old and came at a high cost, providing an additional pair would help in preventing any damage to the prosthesis in crowds.
“If she walks in a crowded area or sleeps, she can put on the cosmetic limb for ease. Cosmetic limbs are much lighter although it will not have certain features of prosthetic limbs,” Bhosale said.

Excited with the prospect of using her own hands to do daily chores after four long months, Monika said, “Every day, I practice to imagine I am using my hands for some work. It will take some time to get used to the prosthesis. Hopefully, I will be able to draw mehendi designs soon.”

According to Bhosale, the myoelectric limb will work on the sensory impulses sent through the nerves to the prosthetic limb. “There are few issues with the setting up of prosthetic limb on her hand. Her stump is small and very fragile. Otto Bock is specially designing a proper fit for her,” he said.

Monika said she would wear cosmetic limbs at home and use myoelectric limbs when complicated functions are involved.

Her mother Kavita More, who is now counting their remaining days in the hospital, said, “We are keen to return home. For four months, I have been travelling to take care of the house and of Monika.”

THE ACCIDENT

On January 11, Monika lost both her limbs after being run over by a local train at Ghatkopar station while she was attempting to board the coach. She had fallen in the gap between the station and platform and subsequently undergone amputation.

Since then, several individual donors lent financial help to the family for her prosthesis. According to doctors, Monika will require a replacement of prosthetic limbs after seven years.

tabassum.barnagarwala@expressindia.com