EOKA Fighters' Melathron is making a significant investment in robotic technology for neurological rehabilitation. The institution recently acquired Cyprus' first robotic exoskeleton, a device designed to assist patients in regaining walking balance.

The EksoNR robotic exoskeleton was showcased at a press conference on Thursday. Antonis Charalambous, the President of the Board of Directors of EOKA Fighters’ Melathron, stated that this investment, surpassing 200,000 euros, includes a 100,000-euro grant from the Ministry of Health through a medical equipment subsidy scheme.

Mr. Charalambous emphasized that incorporating robotic technology in neurological patient rehabilitation is a strategic development for the Melathron. He assured that they would continue to evolve and offer high-quality services, contributing to the upgrade of the rehabilitation sector in Cyprus.

Professor George Kaponides, the scientific director of the Melathron, noted that robotic exoskeletons represent the latest technological achievement. They are primarily used for gait restoration in patients with conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.

He also mentioned that not all patients are suitable for the robotic exoskeleton, as specific criteria must be met. The particular model accommodates patients up to 1.95 meters in height and 100 kilograms in weight.

Furthermore, Mr. Kaponides pointed out that while this technology is new to Cyprus, there are about 256 similar exoskeletons in Europe and four in Greece.

During the press conference, a demonstration of the robotic exoskeleton's capabilities was conducted on a patient with multiple sclerosis. Details were provided by Dr. Konstantinos Tzitzikostas, a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation.