Clinical experience of functional electrical stimulation in complete paraplegia

Percutaneous intramuscular electrodes and a portable multichannel system were used to restore the function of the paralyzed lower extremities in six patients with complete paraplegia. The total number of inserted electrodes was 168. All of the patients could stand, two could walk in parallel bars, and two could walk with a walker. The rate of breakage of electrodes was only 0.6% in our series. There were 10 (6.0%) superficial infections, and 10 (6.0%) movement of electrodes which required reimplantation. The results suggest that the ultrafine intramuscular electrode is practical for long term use with paraplegic patients. Although the system can be used for paraplegic patients during the activities of daily living, it will be necessary to develop a closed-loop controller to reduce the amount of stimulation to the extensor muscles and extend the endurance of upright activity to reduce fatigue.