02:02Switzerland: New implant technology hopes to allow people affected by paralysis to walk again
Medical researchers Jocelyne Bloch and Gregoire Courtine released a new implant technology solution for people affected by complete paralysis on Monday in Lausanne.
Bloch and Courtine, directors at the NeuroRestore research centre, have partnered with medical firm ONWARD Medical for the release, which hopes to enable walking for patients who have suffered severe spinal cord injuries.
"We developed [a] new technology, [that's] more precise, that allows us to address the deficits of individuals with complete sensory motor paralysis," commented Courtine.
The researchers have developed a new electrode array for the implant, which allows them access to activate both leg and trunk muscles.
"This technology is so precise, that immediately after the surgery the patient can walk and stand. But in order to use it outdoors, he needs to train, to come with us and it will take some more time," said Bloch.
According to ONWARD Medical’s press release, after five months of rehabilitation, initial patients were able to stand, walk, swim and cycle.
02:02Mandatory Credit: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Medical researchers Jocelyne Bloch and Gregoire Courtine released a new implant technology solution for people affected by complete paralysis on Monday in Lausanne.
Bloch and Courtine, directors at the NeuroRestore research centre, have partnered with medical firm ONWARD Medical for the release, which hopes to enable walking for patients who have suffered severe spinal cord injuries.
"We developed [a] new technology, [that's] more precise, that allows us to address the deficits of individuals with complete sensory motor paralysis," commented Courtine.
The researchers have developed a new electrode array for the implant, which allows them access to activate both leg and trunk muscles.
"This technology is so precise, that immediately after the surgery the patient can walk and stand. But in order to use it outdoors, he needs to train, to come with us and it will take some more time," said Bloch.
According to ONWARD Medical’s press release, after five months of rehabilitation, initial patients were able to stand, walk, swim and cycle.