Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) surgery is a highly effective procedure for treating various conditions affecting the cervical spine, such as herniated discs, cervical radiculopathy, and spinal stenosis. While ACDF can provide significant relief…
The team from EPFL and Lausanne University Hospital has reported that stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus in the brain has enabled participants with spinal injuries to regain movement. Spinal cord injuries disrupt communication between the brain and lumbar spinal cord neurons, resulting in paralysis and impaired motor function.
In research published in Nature Medicine, the team initially conducted tests on mice to identify the specific neural circuits involved in recovery. They mapped brain activity in mice with spinal injuries to gain insights into the mechanisms of recovery.
A subsequent pilot clinical study was performed to assess the effects of deep brain stimulation therapy directed at the lateral hypothalamus in two human subjects. The initial findings were notable; after electrode placement and subsequent stimulation, one participant reported immediate sensory feedback, stating, “I feel my legs.” With increased stimulation, she expressed a stronger sensation, saying, “I feel the urge to walk!” This immediate feedback indicated that the targeted region was correct, despite it not being previously associated with leg control in humans.
Enhancements in lower body mobility and walking performance were observed in both patients during assessments comprising 10-meter and six-minute walking tests. Importantly, no serious adverse events were recorded throughout the study.
Gregoire Courtine, a co-leader of the study, emphasized the significance of the brain’s role in recovery from paralysis. He explained that the brain generally fails to fully utilize the surviving neuronal connections post-spinal cord injury. This research illustrates how stimulation of an unrecognized brain area can activate these residual connections and potentially enhance neurological recovery for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Given the favorable outcomes of the study, the research team intends to explore the integration of deep brain stimulation with additional advanced technologies. This approach aims to refine rehabilitation strategies for spinal injury patients and expand the understanding of the brain’s capabilities in recovery scenarios.
The findings from this research represent a pivotal moment in neurorehabilitation, highlighting the brain’s potential to engage previously untapped pathways in response to targeted stimulation. As studies continue, there is optimism about improving recovery methods for those affected by spinal injuries, which could represent a significant advancement in treating paralysis and related conditions.