ABSTRACT
A neuroprosthesis, sometimes called a neural prosthesis, is a device that provides short bursts of electrical impulses to the central or peripheral nervous system to produce sensory and/or motor functions. Over the past four decades, neuroprostheses have been developed for a wide variety of applications. Some have achieved great success, such as the cochlear implants and bladder management stimulators that are produced in large volume worldwide. Other neuroprostheses, such as those for walking and grasping, have not yet matured to a level that creates a significant consumer demand. There are far too many neuroprostheses on the market and in development to list comprehensively, so this review involves the general features, principles, and functions of some of the most notable devices past and present.
