Paralysed patients can now send WhatsApp messages using brain implants
- Philip O'Keefe, diagnosed with ALS, participated in a trial and became the first person to send a message using only thoughts.
- The device, developed by Synchron, allows communications for patients who have lost motor control.
- This breakthrough could potentially improve the lives of approximately 100 million people suffering from paralysis and similar conditions.
In 2021, a revolutionary breakthrough in neuroscience occurred when Philip O'Keefe, diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), participated in a trial involving a brain implant designed to help paralyzed patients communicate. ALS is a progressive disease that leads to severe muscle weakness and paralysis, making communication virtually impossible for many afflicted individuals. As part of the trial, a device implanted in O'Keefe's brain enabled him to compose messages directly through thought. After a 20-minute surgical procedure, O'Keefe successfully selected letters on a tablet screen by simply thinking about them. The brain-computer interface (BCI), developed by Synchron, was led by neurologist Tom Oxley, who integrates his clinical insights from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. This innovative technology uses a stent with electrodes that read brain signals to facilitate communication. O'Keefe made a significant breakthrough when he became the first person to send a tweet using this implant, stating, "Hello, world! Short tweet. Monumental progress.” His success represents a pivotal moment in the field of neuroscience and offers a promising avenue for those suffering from similar conditions. The implications of this technology could be monumental, as there are an estimated 100 million people worldwide who could benefit from advancements in brain-computer interfaces. Synchron aims to bridge the gap for individuals who have lost their ability to communicate due to neurological disorders by enhancing their quality of life through innovative technology. As research continues, experts are optimistic that more applications will emerge, allowing many other communication-impaired individuals to regain their voice and creativity. Tom Oxley and his team at Synchron are pioneering efforts that could change the landscape of neuroscience, making it possible for the brain's electric signals to directly translate into functional communication tools. This could lead to a broader acceptance and implementation of similar devices in medical practice, fundamentally altering how individuals interact with technology and each other.