By Healthcare Facilities Today

Magee Rehabilitation Hospital today announced the installation and availability of the Northeast region’s first and only robotic gait training system by Bioness. The Vector Gait & Safety System is designed to provide patients a safe environment to practice standing and walking without an assistive device earlier in the rehabilitation process than otherwise possible “For patients, one fall during rehabilitation can cause anxiety and loss of confidence, setting back their progress. But as we all know, you need practice to perfect a skill,” said Deb Kucera, PT, MSPT, Director of Therapies at Magee Rehabilitation Hospital. “The Vector allows our patients to practice walking on solid ground without an assistive device or risk of falling—something that would not be possible this early in therapy without it. This system promotes recovery over compensation, and we are thrilled to be able to offer our patients this new technology. The Vector Gait & Safety System allows orthopedic, neurologic and amputee patients to participate in gait and balance training while ensuring their safety and the safety of their health care provider. Unlike other track systems, the Vector uses a robotic trolley on a conductive rail that senses the patients’ movement and follows along—there is no pulling required. A software interface allows health care providers to set parameters such as body weight support and fall detection limits to meet individual patient needs. Throughout the training process, the Vector System tracks patient data, allowing for analysis, session comparison and electronic medical record documentation. The Vector System installed on Magee’s third floor is the longest track in the world, providing the Hospital’s patients with opportunities for extended walks and space for practice. To learn more about the Vector System, please visit Bioness.com. For specific questions regarding the Vector System at Magee, please contact Deb Kucera, PT, MSPT, Director of Therapies at dkucera(at)mageerehab(dot)org or (215) 587-3148.