BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACING

Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) like Neuralink are in trial phases. These allow for controlling of assistive technology like computers and robotic arms, via thought alone.

A Swiss trial using an implanted BCI to decode movement intentions from the brain was able to transmit them wirelessly to an implantable spinal cord stimulator. In May 2023, it was reported that a quadriplegic patient (Gert-Jan Oksam) could stand, walk, and climb stairs 12 years post SCI utilizing the technology. A recent clinical trial in the US by Onward Medical used a spine stimulator to restore upper body function in quadriplegic participants.