Bionic Spine Implant Could Help the Paralyzed to Walk Again

Australian developers have created an implantable “bionic spine” that can interpret and transmit signals from the motor cortex. The device, about the size of a paperclip, can be implanted through a vein using a catheter. This method eliminates the need for dangerous and invasive brain surgery.

How it works

The Guardian reports, “The outside of the bionic spine is fitted with electrodes which will detect signals from the motor cortex and send them to a small device that will be implanted in the patient’s shoulder. This device will translate the signals into commands, which will be fed to the bionic limbs via Bluetooth to tell them to move.”

The device is the result of collaboration between the Royal Melbourne Hospital, the University of Melbourne and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health. According to The Guardian, “Prof Terry O’Brien, the head of medicine in the hospital’s neurology department, said the development of the bionic spine was the ‘holy grail’ for bionics researchers.”

A bionic spine doesn’t just offer an opportunity for those who have lost limbs or limb function; implanting the device in other areas could help those suffering from neurological disorders. The bionic spine operates on the principle of plasticity; the brain is miracle of complexity, and can learn different ways to accomplish the same goal.

Bionic spine can help neurological disorders

While the device doesn’t allow users to control their own limbs, it is the first step towards that goal. At the moment, the implant requires a mechanical exoskeleton or other bionic device to control movement. Already, other researchers around the world are working on ways to directly stimulate muscle movement; their work, coupled with the bionic spine, may make the impossible a reality.

There is no way known to science to repair a severed nerve connection. Even the bionic spine is a workaround, a way of making an alternative connection between brain and limbs. Spinal cord injuries are devastating, and while hope is the on the horizon, victims continue to struggle with daily challenges.

At McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, we support all research efforts to improve quality of life. Until this technology becomes widely available, we will continue to fight for the rights of victims of spinal cord injuries. If you or someone you know has suffered a spinal cord injury, our experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys can help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.