Elon Musk’s Neuralink: Patient Successes in Brain Chip Surgery
Groundbreaking Recovery for Quadriplegic Patient
Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company founded by Elon Musk, recently marked a significant milestone: 100 days since its first successful brain chip surgery on a human patient. Noland Arbaugh, a quadriplegic, underwent the groundbreaking procedure at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. Since then, Arbaugh’s quality of life has dramatically improved due to the Neuralink implant.
Enhanced Independence and Comfort
Before the surgery, Arbaugh struggled to use a mouth-held tablet stylus for communication, which caused discomfort and fatigue. However, with the Neuralink implant, he now has wireless control over his laptop from various positions, including lying down in bed. This newfound freedom allows him to engage in various digital activities, such as playing online games and browsing the internet, independently.
“The biggest thing with comfort is that I can lie in my bed and use [the Link],” Arbaugh said. “It lets me live on my own time, not needing to have someone adjust me throughout the day.”
Scientific Breakthroughs
Arbaugh’s participation in the PRIME Study, a clinical trial to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the Neuralink implant, has yielded remarkable scientific advancements. He actively contributes to research sessions for up to 8 hours per day on weekdays, with personal use and recreation exceeding 10 hours on weekends.
In the initial research session, Arbaugh set a world record for human brain-computer interface cursor control, achieving 4.6 bits-per-second (BPS). Since then, he has surpassed 8.0 BPS, showcasing the technology’s potential to enable tasks like text entry and control of robotic arms and wheelchairs in the future.
Future Innovations on the Horizon
Neuralink engineers are dedicated to continuously refining the implant’s recording algorithms and user interface to enhance performance and functionality. They aim to develop it further to empower individuals with unmet medical needs.
“Neuralink’s mission is to restore autonomy to individuals with unmet medical needs,” said a Neuralink spokesperson. “The success of Arbaugh’s surgery and his subsequent improvement in quality of life serve as a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar challenges.”
As Neuralink celebrates this milestone, it remains committed to the pursuit of better outcomes for individuals living with neurological conditions, offering renewed hope and independence through technological advancements.