New implant corrects movements of paralyzed people

In a study published last week in the scientific journal Nature Scientists from .NeuroRestore in Switzerland were able to demonstrate the effectiveness of the epidural electrical stimulation implant in patients who: paralytic for their injuries spinal cord Stimulation was directed to the area responsible for controlling the movement of the legs, causing positive effects in some participants.

completely, scientists were able to use the technique to help nine patients regain some movementThe treatment resulted in a neurorehabilitation process in which the nerve fibers used for walking were able to reorganize themselves, with improvement in motor function even after the implant stimulation ended.

According to the scientists, the study helps to better understand neuronal remodeling, which is crucial for the development of better treatments for stroke patients. The researchers even want to be able to manipulate these neurons to regenerate the spinal cord.

“Our new study, in which nine patients from clinical trials were able to improve motor function to some extent thanks to our implants, gives us valuable insight into the reorganization process of spinal cord neurons,” said University Hospital neurosurgeon. Jocelyne Bloch, professor at Lausanne (CHUV) and the Federal Polytechnic School of Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland.

Restoration of motor function

The study also suggests that electrical stimulation helps activate neurons of the Vsx2 gene, which is responsible for assisting in the process of neuronal remodeling – so scientists could use this process to aid in the recovery of certain movements.

Initially, the researchers used mice to understand the recovery of motor function with the help of electrical stimulation. From there, the team developed 3-D molecular technology of the spinal cord to observe the healing process with extreme accuracy.