The loss of even a single finger phalanx is often perceived as a minor injury only by those who have never experienced it. In reality, however, the inability to fully use one’s hand deprives a person of the ability to perform basic daily tasks: from holding a cup of coffee to working on a computer. A team of Ukrainian developers, as part of the “Steel Touch” project, has created a solution—mechanical prosthetics that restore lost motor function and cost ten times less than foreign counterparts.
A team of enthusiasts and the story behind the project
The project emerged at the intersection of engineering expertise and volunteer experience. Oleksandr Letiy, head of the NGO “Union of People with Disabilities of the Zaporizhzhia Region,” and coordinator Vitalina Yakovleva joined forces with Ukrainian engineer Danylo Osipov, who works at the University of Norway.
Oleksandr and Vitalina’s collaboration began in the basements of Zaporizhzhia back in 2022, where they were packing medical supplies for the front lines. Oleksandr handled the technical aspects, while Vitalina managed humanitarian aid and the filling of first-aid kits. It was this trust and shared desire to help that laid the foundation for the development of the prosthetics. Danylo Osipov, whom Vitalina calls a “talented engineer and friend,” devoted about a year to creating the first unique finger model, staying in constant contact with the team to refine the product.
The Philosophy of Functionality and Emotional Recovery
Vitalina Yakovleva emphasizes that the team focuses specifically on mechanics: “We deal with mechanical prosthetics; in other words, this is not bionics.” This approach makes the product more reliable in daily life and easier to maintain.
Despite the technical focus, the project’s creators see a deeper meaning in their work.
“Our primary motivation was to restore functionality. But beyond functionality, it’s about a person’s emotional state,” notes the coordinator.
The ability to shake a friend’s hand again or cuddle a child restores social connections that are often shattered by feelings of inadequacy.
Technical Features and Materials
Oleksandr Letii explains the technical aspects of the development in detail:
“Two materials form the basis: a titanium alloy and plastic components—nylon. In this case, we have a mechanical prosthesis designed to restore hand function.”
To prevent skin irritation, spacers made of hypoallergenic medical-grade silicone, known as “dragonskin,” are used.
This combination allows the device to withstand loads of up to 30 kilograms. An important prerequisite for installing the mechanism is the presence of a certain portion of the finger.
“We need at least two centimeters of the phalanx so we can secure it,” adds Oleksandr Letii.
It is this remnant that allows the person to control the artificial finger independently.
Patient experiences and technology accessibility
Patients are already using the first versions of the prostheses. Among them is an IT specialist who, after losing two fingers, was able to return to work using a keyboard and mouse. Vitalina says that people’s emotions after receiving a prosthesis are indescribable:
“When you’re given the chance to hold your child’s hand again—it’s more than just emotions. This motivates us to work even harder.”
The market situation in the field of phalanx prosthetics shows a huge price gap. Products from global leaders cost between $6,000 and $8,000 per finger. The cost of materials for the Ukrainian-developed prosthetics is about $600. The team deliberately chose not to add commercial markups to make the technology as accessible as possible.
Challenges and Plans for the Future
Statistics on upper limb injuries in Ukraine are rising. Before the war, approximately 50,000 hand injuries were recorded annually, with 25% of cases involving finger amputations. Today, blast injuries have significantly increased these figures.
Scaling the project requires investments in high-precision machine tools and 3D scanners. Oleksandr Letii appeals to donors to support the development of production:
“Please take note of the need that exists in Ukraine. Support the Ukrainian people—not us, but the project and the people.”
The developers aim to fully close the production cycle within the country, creating a 100% Ukrainian product accessible to everyone who needs it.
Read also:
A prosthetics center with the largest prosthetics workshop has opened in Lviv
