There are few things worse than losing a hand, especially a dominant hand. Fortunately for those stuck in such a lousy situation, technological advances in prosthetics have made leaps and bounds in recent years, culminating in devices like this bionic hand.

Sensing muscle messages via myoelectric signals, the hand functions just like the real thing. It can grip, has the sensitivity to pick up small or delicate objects, and is strong enough for heavy lifting. Invented by David Gow and made by Touch Bionics, the hand is sure to make a huge difference in the lives of many people. They hope to have it available in two to five years.— Adam Frucci

BBC, via New Launches