A breakthrough for paralyzed people
Breakthrough for paralyzed people – innovative BSI system
BSI system in action
A chance for a new life for people with paralysis
Breakthrough for paralyzed people - innovative BSI system
Paralysis is a common problem affecting people all over the world. Spinal cord damage leads to the loss of motor and sensory functions and, consequently, to a significant reduction in mobility and independence. Although modern medicine offers many supportive therapies, there is still no effective way to fully recover lost functions after a spinal cord injury. Scientists from Europe have made a significant step towards restoring mobility to people with paralysis. They have developed an innovative Brain-Spinal Cord Interface (BSI) system that uses brain signals to stimulate the spinal cord and support walking. A breakthrough is coming for paralyzed people.
BSI system in action
The BSI system is an innovative technology aimed at restoring mobility to people with paralysis. It is based on the use of brain signals to stimulate the spinal cord and support walking. A clinical trial involving three rhesus macaques showed promising results. The animals were implanted in the cerebral cortex and spinal cord. These implants recorded brain and EMG signals (from muscles) and stimulated the spinal cord. The algorithm analyzed brain signals in real time and predicted leg movements. Based on this, the BSI system sent impulses to the spinal cord, stimulating the appropriate muscles and enabling walking. The stimulation delay was only 192 ms, which did not disturb the natural walking rhythm. The macaques were able to walk independently on a treadmill and even overcome obstacles.
A chance for a new life for people with paralysis
The results obtained are extremely promising. The BSI system may constitute the basis for creating neuroprostheses for people with paralysis. ESCS implants used in the study may in the future restore the ability to walk to many people who have lost it as a result of spinal cord damage. Scientists plan to further study the BSI system to verify its effectiveness in humans. They will also work to improve the technology and reduce the size of the implants. One of the key challenges is to ensure the long-term functionality of the implants. It is also important that the BSI system is easy to use and accessible to a wide range of patients. The development of the BSI system is a breakthrough event in the field of medicine and rehabilitation. New technology opens up new opportunities for people with paralysis and gives them hope to regain their lost mobility.
