In trials, early users in 10 countries reported a 95% preference for the relatively low-cost AT-Knee to more expensive existing technologies. Developed with a $100,000 Grand Challenges Canada seed grant awarded in 2012 to the Bloorview Research Institute, the AT-Knee easily outperformed existing technologies under rigorous conditions in El Salvador, Chile and Myanmar.
The global market for lower limb prosthetic devices is estimated at 10+ million people, a number growing with an aging population, chronic health problems, landmines, war, violence, traffic injuries and other poverty-related causes. WHO estimates that only 5-15% of all lower-limb amputees in the developing world have access to appropriate services, a large unmet need. Stripping the ability to walk, amputation restricts independence, employment potential and productive community participation.