Home / Health / World First: Brain Tech Gives Paralysed Man His Hands Back
World First: Brain Tech Gives Paralysed Man His Hands Back
16 Jul
Summary
- Brain implant technology restored movement and feeling in paralyzed hands.
- Advanced machine learning translated brainwaves into limb movements.
- Patient regained significant arm strength and sensation for touch.
A revolutionary brain implant technology has enabled a man with quadriplegia to regain movement and feeling in his hands, marking a significant advancement in treating spinal cord injuries.
The patient, Keith Thomas, utilized an advanced machine-learning algorithm and skin sensors to translate his brainwaves into controlled limb movements. This "double neural bypass" approach aims to enhance both immediate function and long-term neuroplasticity.
Over 35 weeks, Thomas experienced remarkable improvements, including an 86% increase in right arm strength and a 62% increase in left arm strength. He progressed from being unable to lift his hands to his face to independently performing tasks such as scratching his nose and feeding himself.
The system also incorporated sensors to provide the perception of touch, allowing Thomas to grasp delicate objects like eggshells without breaking them. Researchers noted the restoration of both movement and sensory feedback as particularly novel and important for everyday hand function.
While experts acknowledge the breakthrough, they also point out that it was demonstrated on a single subject and does not represent a full recovery. Nonetheless, the study offers promising insights for future neuroprosthetic research and potential clinical applications for paralysis.
