Spinal Cord Implant Improves Walking in Parkinson's Patient: Larger Clinical Trial Planned

Novel neuroprosthesis device implanted on the spinal cord aims to alleviate walking deficits in Parkinson's patients, allowing restoration of mobility, whilst operating in real-time and complementing existing therapies.

Marc Gauthier, a 63-year-old Parkinson's patient, was implanted with an experimental spinal cord neuroprosthesis that has significantly improved his walking ability. This technology was developed by researchers from France and Switzerland, and involves stimulating specific areas of the spinal cord associated with walking.
The neuroprosthetic approach, the first of its kind, targets and addresses walking and balance problems on a highly individual basis. The device operates in real-time and is complementary to other existing therapies such as deep brain stimulation or dopamine-increasing medications.
The implant involves an array of electrodes against the lower region of the spinal cord, which are then linked to a neural stimulator placed under the skin in the abdominal region. This stimulator applies electrical stimulation to the spinal cord, which stimulates the weakened sensory fibers attached to the leg muscles, thereby improving mobility.
While the implant has improved Gauthier's quality of life, it is not a cure for his Parkinson's disease. Despite the beneficial effects of the spinal cord stimulation, his symptoms are expected to continue to become more severe as the disease progresses.
The success of this proof-of-concept study has paved the way for further research and development. A second patient has begun therapy, and clinical tests are planned for six other patients with Parkinson's disease next year. The researchers are also working on developing a commercial version of the neuroprosthesis, expecting it to take at least five years of development and testing.

MIT Technology Review