Groundbreaking Brain-Spinal Cord Surgery Offers Hope for Millions with Spinal Cord Injuries

Groundbreaking Surgery Offers Hope for Paralyzed Individuals

Four paralyzed individuals in Shanghai have undergone groundbreaking surgery that has restored their ability to walk independently. The surgery involves implanting electrodes in the brain and spinal cord, creating a "nerve bypass" that allows patients to regain control of their legs.

The Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence at Fudan University developed the technology and conducted the surgeries between January 8th and January 23rd at Zhongshan Hospital and Huashan Hospital in Shanghai. The patients, all men in their 30s who became paralyzed due to work-related accidents, have shown varying degrees of improvement.

Within 24 hours of the surgery, patients were able to move their legs with the assistance of artificial intelligence. After two weeks, they achieved independent leg control and could take steps, marking a significant advancement in spinal cord injury treatment.

The surgery involves implanting a chip in the skull that collects brain signals and a paddle lead in the epidural space that provides electrical stimulation to specific nerve roots. This "neural bridge" allows the brain to communicate with the spinal cord, enabling paralyzed individuals to regain limb control.

Researchers are working to optimize the technology and reduce the delay between brain commands and action. Their ultimate goal is for patients to walk independently without suspension support within six months to a year.

The success of this surgery offers hope for millions of paralyzed individuals worldwide. It represents a significant step forward in the field of neural function reconstruction and could revolutionize the treatment of spinal cord injuries.