A man who was paralyzed from the neck down after a spinal cord injury has been able to walk again thanks to a groundbreaking combination of artificial intelligence and brain implants.
The man, identified only as David, participated in a clinical trial at the University of Grenoble in France, where he underwent surgery to implant two wireless sensors in his brain. The sensors recorded his brain activity and sent signals to a computer, which used artificial intelligence to decode his intentions and control a robotic exoskeleton.
After months of training, David was able to walk several meters with the help of the exoskeleton and a harness that supported his weight. He also learned to control his arms and hands using the same system.
The researchers behind the project, called Clinatec, said it was the first time that a tetraplegic patient had been able to perform such complex movements using brain signals and a four-limb robotic device.
“This is a major achievement that opens new possibilities for patients with severe motor disabilities,” said Professor Alim-Louis Benabid, the lead researcher and president of Clinatec.
The results of the trial were published in the journal The Lancet Neurology on Wednesday.
The researchers cautioned that the technology was still experimental and required further improvements before it could be widely available. They also said that the exoskeleton was not a substitute for natural movement, but rather a way to enhance the quality of life and autonomy of patients.
“We are not aiming to replace the wheelchair, but to offer an alternative solution for mobility and manipulation,” said Professor Stephan Chabardes, a neurosurgeon at Clinatec.
David, who was injured in a fall four years ago, said he was proud to be part of the trial and hoped it would benefit other people in his situation.
“It was like being the first man on the Moon. I didn’t walk for two years. I forgot what it is to stand, I forgot I was taller than a lot of people in the room,” he told BBC News. “It was very impressive and surprising for me.”
