Neuroprosthesis for individuals with spinal cord injury

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) often results in widespread loss of bodily system functions.
• Electrical stimulation-based neuroprostheses offer a pathway to significant functional recovery for individuals with SCI.
• Commonly addressed functions include grasp, reach, posture, locomotion, and autonomic/respiratory functions.

Approach:

• Review of fundamental principles of safe electrical stimulation delivery via implanted devices.
• Examination of four key clinical applications for SCI: grasp/reach, standing/stepping, bladder/bowel control, and respiratory support.
• Highlighting common system features and customization based on functional goals and individual user needs.

Key Points:

• Implanted neuroprostheses have demonstrated a substantial positive impact on health and functional outcomes in SCI patients.
• Customization of neuroprosthetic systems is crucial for optimizing therapeutic benefits for each individual.
• Established principles ensure the safe delivery of electrical stimulation through implanted devices.

Conclusions:

• Neuroprosthetic systems can significantly enhance the health, function, and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injury.
• Broadening the availability of implanted neuroprostheses to the entire SCI population is a critical future objective.