Brain-controlled prosthesis marks major breakthrough for amputees
Image credit: ricardo4to via Unsplash
In a major scientific breakthrough, MIT researchers have developed a new surgical procedure and neuroprosthetic interface that enables amputees to control their prosthetic limbs with their brains. According to data published in the journal Nature Medicine, people using the prosthetic can walk as fast as those with intact lower limbs. The brain-driven prosthesis offers new hope for individuals with amputations, allowing for a smoother movement and enhanced ability to navigate obstacles, thereby offering greater independence and functionality. It marks a promising step forward in the field of prosthetic technology and rehabilitation.
Source
Song, H., Hsieh, T. H., Yeon, S. H., Shu, T., Nawrot, M., Landis, C. F., Friedman, G. N., Israel, E. A., Gutierrez-Arango, S., Carty, M. J., Freed, L. E., & Herr, H. M. (2024). Continuous neural control of a bionic limb restores biomimetic gait after amputation. Nature medicine, 10.1038/s41591-024-02994-9. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-02994-9
Additional Reading
https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2024/07/01/amputation-leg-brain-prosthesis/