Implant helps paralyzed man to feed himself and drink from a cup
Researchers have developed a 'double neural bypass' system that allows a paralyzed patient to regain hand movement and a sense of touch. The system uses brain signals to stimulate the spinal cord and somatosensory cortex, showing potential for both real-time assistance and long-term recovery.
Why it matters
This breakthrough offers a significant advancement in neuroprosthetics, potentially improving the quality of life for individuals with complete spinal cord injuries.
by The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Keith Thomas (left) who lives with paralysis, can now feel touch, as demonstrated by Dr. Chad Bouton of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, thanks to the first-of-its-kind "double neural bypass" system. Credit: Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research A neuroprosthetic system has helped a man with paralysis move his hand and feel touch again following a spinal cord injury, reports research published in Nature Medicine . Some of the system's benefits continued even when the device was turned off, suggesting that it may support longer-term recovery as well as help movement in real time.
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