Canadian Neurosurgeons Recruiting Six Participants for Neuralink Brain Implant Study

Canadian Neurosurgeons Partner with Neuralink to Launch Groundbreaking Brain Implant Trial

Canadian neurosurgeons, in collaboration with Elon Musk’s Neuralink, have received regulatory approval to recruit six patients for a pioneering study involving brain implants. The trial, named CAN-PRIME, aims to assess the safety and efficacy of Neuralink’s device, designed to enable individuals with severe paralysis to control devices using their thoughts.

The project, approved by Health Canada, has begun recruiting patients. Two similar implants have already been placed in patients in the United States. Toronto-based neurosurgeon Andres Lozano, who leads the trial, revealed that Neuralink approached him and his team a year ago, citing their expertise with brain implant technologies.

“Myself and our entire team jumped at the possibility of participating in this trial,” said Lozano.

The procedure involves using Neuralink’s custom-designed two-ton robotic system to implant 64 electrodes with 16 contacts each into the hand-motor areas of the brain. These electrodes will capture neural activity and transmit signals that allow patients to move connected devices simply by thinking about movement.

To qualify for the study, candidates must have severe quadriplegia resulting from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or a spinal cord injury. The surgeries will be performed in Toronto, with participants later using the technology in their own homes.

Neuralink is responsible for designing the electrodes and decoding the neural signals, while the medical team will oversee patient selection, surgical safety, and monitoring. Despite the potential, Lozano emphasized the risks involved, including brain bleeds, infections, or malfunctioning wires.

Neuralink has faced challenges in earlier trials. For instance, in May, the company disclosed that wires had shifted in one of its initial patients, an issue reportedly known to Neuralink for some time.

Health Canada confirmed its authorization of the trial on November 15 but did not release study protocols. Neuralink did not respond to requests for comment.

While this technology remains years away from widespread availability, Lozano and other experts, including Brad Wouters from the University Health Network, acknowledge the rapid pace at which Musk’s ventures have progressed.

The potential for such technology extends beyond reading brain activity. Future advancements could enable transmitting data into the brain, potentially restoring sight for visually impaired individuals. However, Lozano highlighted the importance of robust safeguards to prevent misuse, including hacking or unauthorized control of brain functions.

“We have to ensure this technology is developed safely and responsibly,” Lozano stated.