June 14, 2011, Minneapolis, Minn. Today, Otto Bock HealthCare announces the launch of the Genium™ Bionic Prosthetic System. This one-of-a-kind prosthetic knee utilizes sophisticated software to turn multiple environmental inputs (a complex sensor system, including a gyroscope and an accelerometer) into the most natural, intuitive motion available.

The result of extensive research and development, the Genium is built on an entirely new prosthetic technology platform. This groundbreaking technology redefines quality of life for wearers, allowing them to make quick, complex movements, easily step over obstacles, and even ascend stairs.

“The term 'amazing' is used around the world to describe the current standard of care, our C-Leg® microprocessor-controlled knee,” said Brad Ruhl, President and CEO of Otto Bock US HealthCare. “But the Genium moves us into a completely different arena, offering the closest thing to natural human motion currently available.”

The Genium offers new features that respond instantly to whatever changes in speed or direction the wearer makes.  It also helps reduce strain on the body as well as lowering the cognitive effort required to move through everyday and challenging activities.

“As a clinician, it is exciting to be able to offer this type of technology to prosthetists and patients everywhere,” commented Mark Edwards, MHPE, CP, and Otto Bock HealthCare US Director of Professional and Clinical Education.  “My background as a Prosthetist and educator exposes me to everything new to the market – and this is an innovation I’m truly proud to support.”

For more information, visit www.ottobockus.com/genium