Brain Implants Allow Quadriplegic Man to Reclaim Mobility

An American man living with quadriplegia has regained the partial use of his hands and wrists, thanks to several brain implants powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

In July 2020, Keith Thomas of Massapequa, New York was left paralysed from the chest down following a diving accident. Due to the extensive damage caused to his spinal cord, he was left with no hope of reclaiming his mobility until he met Chad Bouton just 15 months later.

As a professor at the Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine at Northwell Health’s Feinstein Institutes, Bouton offered Thomas an opportunity to become a participant in a clinical trial, whereby he would be fitted with AI-powered brain implants.

Taking the form of several micro-chips, these implants serve as an “electronic bridge” between the 45-year-old’s brain, spinal cord and paralysed body, allowing for the restoration of movement and the ability to feel.

“When the study participant thinks about moving his arm or hand,” explained Bouton in a recent press release, “we ‘supercharge’ his spinal cord, and stimulate his brain and muscles to help rebuild connections, provide sensory feedback and promote recovery. This type of thought-driven therapy is a game-changer.”

After undergoing a 15-hour, open-brain operation at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York on 9 March 2023, Thomas is slowly but surely reaping the benefits of this life-changing endeavour.

“There was a time that I didn’t know if I was even going to live, or if I wanted to, frankly,” he said. “And now, I can feel the touch of someone holding my hand. It’s overwhelming.”

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