A new magnetic device for quadriplegia.

STUDY DESIGN: Case report. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether a new custom-made magnetic device might enable a patient affected with quadriplegia to self-feed. SETTING: Day Hospital of the Unipolar Spinal Unit, CTO Hospital, Turin, Italy. METHODS: Three magnets were affixed to a custom-made device and to a specially modified cutlery and a bottle of water. RESULTS: The magnetic device permitted the patient to feed himself autonomously, using both a knife and a fork to eat and a bottle of water to drink. CONCLUSION: Such a magnetic device might be useful for self-feeding in a patient with quadriplegia.