Reach and grasp by people with tetraplegia using a neurally controlled robotic arm

Nature, 2012 · DOI: 10.1038/nature11076 · Published: May 17, 2012

Simple Explanation

This study explores the use of neural interface systems (NIS) to restore movement in people with paralysis. The NIS translates brain activity into control signals for assistive devices, such as robotic arms. Two participants with long-standing tetraplegia used an NIS to control a robotic arm for three-dimensional reach and grasp movements. They could control the arm without explicit training, using signals from a small area of the motor cortex. One participant, who had the sensor implanted five years earlier, used the robotic arm to drink coffee from a bottle, demonstrating the potential for restoring everyday activities.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Two people with long-standing tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Level 4, Case Series

Key Findings

1
People with long-standing tetraplegia can use NIS-based control to perform 3D reach and grasp movements with a robotic arm.
2
A participant with a sensor implanted over 5 years earlier could still use neural signals to control the robotic arm, demonstrating the feasibility of long-term intracortical interfaces.
3
Participants were able to perform more complex robotic control than previously demonstrated in able-bodied non-human primates.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates the ability of two people with long-standing tetraplegia to use a neural interface system (NIS) to control a robotic arm for three-dimensional reach and grasp movements. Participants controlled the arm using signals decoded from a small population of motor cortex neurons, and one participant was able to use the arm to drink coffee from a bottle. The results suggest the feasibility of using cortically-driven commands to restore lost arm function for people with paralysis, even years after the injury.

Practical Implications

Restoration of Function

This research suggests that neural interface systems could restore lost arm function for people with paralysis, allowing them to perform complex manual skills.

Assistive Technology

The development of neurally-controlled robotic arms could provide assistive devices for people with tetraplegia, enabling them to perform everyday tasks such as eating and drinking independently.

Long-Term Implants

The successful use of a sensor implanted over 5 years prior suggests the feasibility of creating long-term intracortical interfaces, which are essential for the practical application of NISs.

Study Limitations

1
Robotic reach and grasp actions were not as fast or accurate as those of an able-bodied person.
2
Future clinical research is needed to establish whether more signals, better decoders, or explicit participant training will provide more complex control.
3
Whether MI signals are suitable for people with limb loss to control an advanced prosthetic arm remains to be tested.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Assistive Technology