A bionic knee is transforming lives. Researchers with the Hanger Clinic say it’s allowing people with a shorter built height access to microprocessor technology.
Albert Guzman, 28, from Coconut Grove, has been fitted with it — it’s called the Quattro knee, the first of its kind in over five years, and Guzman is the first patient in the country to use the knee.
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“Because it’s shorter in height, it will allow patients that don’t have the length necessary will be able to try the Quattro,” said Jorge Gonzalez, a prosthetist with the Hanger Clinic.
The microprocessor technology allows for more mobility for the patient, who can control the knee with an app from his phone.
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“He can switch over to biking mode, golfing mode, get back on his motorcycle,” said Brett Rosen, a clinic manager with Hanger Clinic.
Guzman had an accident in the Dominican Republic back in December. He was using a wheelchair, struggling to see himself doing the things he loved.
“This knee will allow me to do things like running, swimming and working out,” he said in Spanish.
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Guzman still has a lot of physical therapy ahead to get him back to doing those activities, but knowing it’s possible has given him a new perspective on his future and an opportunity to take a step forward.