Brandon Prestwood, an amputee, is a participant in a research program which develops advanced prosthetics and implants to restore sensory function in amputees. In this episode, he discusses his experience as an amputee in this research program, as well as the implanted device he uses to restore the lost functionality of his forearm.

Top three takeaways:

1. Medical treatments for amputees can often involve excessive medications, many of which are opioid-based, which can be problematic as it can lead to addiction.
2. Current technologies to restore limb functionality in amputees are very beneficial and promising, but there are still limitations to overcome and improvements to make.
3. It is important for this technology to be available to all amputees, so that they may restore their limb functionality and improve their quality of life.

[0:00] Ladan introduces the episode and the guest, Brandon Prestwood, on the second day of SfN 2019

[3:15] Prestwood gives a background on the accident that led to his injury and amputation

[6:30] Prestwood discusses the medications he was made to take during the course of his medical treatment, and how he believes opioids are overprescribed

[9:20] Prestwood discusses being a participant in a research program which develops implants to restore sensory function in amputees

[12:15] Prestwood discusses the implanted myoelectric device he uses to restore the functionality of his forearm

[15:00] Prestwood discusses the limitations of the device and what he can and cannot do with the device

[18:40] Prestwood discusses the surgery whereby he received the device

[22:15] It is important for every amputee to have the opportunity to restore their limb functionality. This type of technology has the capability to restore an amputee's quality of life and is incredibly beneficial to mankind.