The prosthetics and orthotics industry is witnessing significant consolidation and technological advancement, with Hanger's recent acquisition of Coapt being a prime example of this evolution.
• Coapt's pattern recognition technology transforms how upper extremity amputees control prosthetic devices
• Traditional myoelectric systems use only two sensors while Coapt's system employs an array of 18 sensors
• Machine learning algorithms decode neurological intent, making prosthetic control more intuitive
• Upper extremity amputations represent only about 20% of all amputations, creating a niche market
• Blair Lock, Coapt's CEO, built the company over 13 years without outside investment
• The "slow burn" approach to business growth can be necessary and beneficial in specialized medical technology
• Additive manufacturing plays multiple roles in prosthetics: from prototyping to clinical fabrication
• Regulatory requirements significantly impact the economics of prosthetic technology
• Myoelectric technology has potential applications beyond prosthetics: exoskeletons, industrial robotics, and other human-machine interfaces
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