A tiny device the size of a paperclip could dramatically change the lives of people with paralysis
In a world first, researchers at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and the University of Melbourne have developed an implant that allows patients to control computers with their minds
Called a Stentrode, the device is placed next to the motor cortex of the brain and transmits brain impulses to a unit implanted under the skin in the chest
An external receiver then sends these commands to a computer, allowing the patient to perform online tasks such as researching, emailing, shopping online, and scrolling through social media.
Both men were able to zoom in, click with at least 92% accuracy, and type at speeds of 14 to 20 characters per minute
Professor Peter Mitchell of the Royal Melbourne Hospital said the results were promising and demonstrate the device can be safely implanted and used in patients
« We are delighted to announce that we have delivered a fully implantable, take-home wireless technology that does not require open brain surgery, that works to restore the freedoms of people with severe disabilities », a- he declared
Professor Mitchell implanted the device on study participants through their blood vessels, adjacent to the motor cortex of the brain, as part of a procedure involving a small « keyhole » incision in the neck
« This is the first time that an operation of this type has been performed, so we cannot guarantee that there would be no problems, but in both cases the surgery went better. than we had hoped for, « he said
University of Melbourne Associate Professor Nicholas Opie added that the developments were exciting and the patients involved had regained a level of freedom in their lives
« Watching participants use the system to communicate and control a computer with their minds independently and at home is truly amazing, » Associate Professor Opie said
« We are grateful to work with such fantastic participants, and my colleagues and I are honored to make a difference in their lives. Hope others are inspired by their success »
The University of Melbourne received a grant from the Australian government through the National Health and Medical Research Council to expand the clinical study
Stent, Implant, Brain Implant, Computer Electrode Registration Network
News from the world – AU – New brain implant lets paralyzed Australians control a computer with their thoughts
