Neuralink’s brain chip implant, used in its first trial participant, has shown improved stability according to company executive Dongjin “D.J.” Seo. Noland Arbaugh, paralyzed from the shoulders down, initially faced issues when tiny wires inside his brain shifted following surgery in May. However, Seo mentioned that over time, the tissues have anchored the wires in place, stabilizing the implant.
Arbaugh, based in Arizona, remains the sole recipient of the implant so far, with plans to expand participation to several more patients this year, as Elon Musk aims for single-digit participant numbers.
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To address previous challenges, Neuralink is implementing risk mitigation strategies such as sculpting the skull surface more precisely and normalizing carbon dioxide levels in the blood during procedures. Matthew MacDougall, Neuralink’s head of neurosurgery, highlighted these measures to minimize gaps under the implant, reducing tension on the threads and improving proximity to the brain.
Neuralink’s implant aims to enable paralyzed individuals to control digital devices using their thoughts, utilizing ultra-thin wires to capture brain signals for actions like moving a computer cursor. Musk emphasized during a livestream that the device does not harm the brain, reassuring concerns previously raised by the FDA, which eventually granted approval for human trials last year.
The device has already shown promising results, enabling Arbaugh to engage in activities like playing video games, browsing the internet, and controlling a laptop cursor solely through thought. Looking ahead, Neuralink is developing a more efficient and powerful device that will require fewer electrodes implanted in the brain, aimed at further enhancing functionality.
