Mind-Controlled tech: brain implant gives hope to paralyzed patients

NCT ID NCT01894802

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Michael Boninger Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a brain implant that records activity from the motor cortex and stimulates the sensory cortex. It aims to help people with severe arm or hand impairment—due to spinal cord injury, stroke, or amputation—control external devices like computers. The trial focuses on safety over 12 months and whether the implant can reliably translate thoughts into actions.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: CRS Arrays (brain implant microelectrodes)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could enable people with severe limb impairment to control external devices like computers or robotic arms using their thoughts, improving independence.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage trial with only 30 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The implant requires surgery and carries risks like infection or device failure.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anterior spinal artery stroke brachial plexus neuropathy brachial plexus neuropathy from injury brain stem infarction quadriplegia spinal cord injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ABOVE ELBOW AMPUTATION BRACHIAL PLEXUS INJURY BRAINSTEM STROKE SPINAL CORD INJURY TETRAPLEGIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Chicago
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States
University of Pittsburgh
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, United States

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