Medical Breakthrough: AI-Powered Brain Implant Helps Paralyzed Man Regain Movement and Sensation
A new AI-powered brain implant is helping a paralyzed man regain movement and sensation, offering new hope for those suffering from paralysis. Keith Thomas, a 46-year-old Wall Street trader from Long Island, experienced a life-altering diving accident in 2020, which left him paralyzed from the chest down.
Today, thanks to an innovative procedure, Thomas has achieved remarkable milestones on his road to recovery, first reported by FoxNews.
The Accident That Changed Everything
Thomas’ accident occurred while diving into a swimming pool, where he hit the bottom and broke his neck. Recalling the terrifying moment, Thomas explained, “I blacked out, and I couldn’t move.” Airlifted to the hospital, he began a long and isolating recovery journey, which became even more challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Revolutionary AI-Powered Procedure
In 2023, Thomas became the recipient of the world’s first AI-powered double neural bypass implant during a 15-hour surgery at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health in New York.
Five microchips were placed in his brain: two in the motor control region and three in the sensory area. These chips, connected to a computer running custom AI software, now allow Thomas to control movement through thought alone.
“This clinical trial is the first time we have electronically linked the brain, body, and spinal cord in a paralyzed patient to restore movement and sensation,” said Chad Bouton, the study’s principal investigator and a professor at the Feinstein Institutes.
The AI technology reads Thomas’ brainwaves and reroutes them around the injury to his hand, enabling him to move his arm and even feel sensations in his wrist and hand. Dr. Bouton added, “The double neural bypass technology promotes lasting recovery of movement and sensation by stimulating muscles, the brain, and the spinal cord based on his brain patterns.”
Reclaiming Movement and Sensation
After the surgery, Thomas began regular sessions at the research institute, where his progress was monitored closely. His recovery has been nothing short of remarkable, achieving three significant milestones in a short period.
“First, Keith felt the touch of his sister’s hand for the first time since his accident,” shared Bouton. “There was not a dry eye in the lab.” Thomas also doubled his arm strength, an accomplishment rare for someone with a spinal cord injury.
Most recently, he was able to lift a cup, feel its texture, and take a sip, all through thought-directed motion — a feat once thought impossible. “It’s mind-boggling,” said Thomas. “Every day, we’re accomplishing more.”
The Future of AI in Medicine
The success of this trial opens doors to the future of AI-powered brain-computer interface technology, potentially revolutionizing treatments for paralysis. “AI is already changing the way we practice medicine, but combining it with brain-computer interfaces will transform how we treat paralysis and other conditions,” said Bouton.
The next steps for Thomas include gaining more independence, with aspirations of one day driving his motorized wheelchair. “I want to live a more independent life,” Thomas said. “If I can inspire others to participate in trials, that’s all I want.”
Northwell Health has received approval to expand the clinical trial, offering new hope to others suffering from similar injuries. With continued advancements in AI and neuroscience, the possibilities for recovery in paralysis patients are brighter than ever.
