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

NCT ID NCT01894802

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Chicago

    RECRUITING

    Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • University of Pittsburgh

    RECRUITING

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact