A Novel Electromagnetic-Neurobiologic Interface for Functional Animation of Dormant Motor Nerve Roots in Spinal Cord Injury via Neuromodulation

Frontiers in Surgery, 2020 · DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2019.00073 · Published: January 10, 2020

Simple Explanation

This case report describes a procedure to stimulate motor nerve roots in a patient with complete motor and sensory paraplegia using a device available for chronic pain treatment. Electrodes were implanted near L2-S1 motor nerve roots bilaterally to stimulate the nerves and induce precise movements at the joints of the lower extremity. The approach shows potential for rehabilitation, possibly with an electrical circuit bridging the damaged spinal cord.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

A 26-year old woman with T5 complete paralysis

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
Motor nerve roots can be modulated in precise, replicable, and targeted manners in a patient with complete sensory and motor SCI.
2
Parts of devices for chronic pain treatment may cause muscle contraction in paralyzed patients.
3
Electrical stimulation can improve muscle strength and allow a patient with complete SCI to stand with assistance.

Research Summary

This case report demonstrates the ability to modulate motor nerve roots in precise, replicable, and targeted manners in a patient who was diagnosed with complete sensory and motor (ASIA- grade A) SCI. The stimulator in this study uses externally provided electrical ﬁelds, placed upon or implanted within clusters of nerves including nerve roots. This case study suggests that parts of devices for treatment of chronic pain may be capable of causing muscle contraction among paralyzed patients.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Potential

This approach suggests a rehabilitation procedure in complete SCI, where precise targeting of nerve roots could lead to more diverse functional effects.

Parallel Electric Circuitry

The case shows the possibility of a parallel electric circuitry that can effectively bridge a damaged spinal cord.

Future Mobility

Developing current techniques may usher in a new era of mobility for paralyzed patients.

A Novel Electromagnetic-Neurobiologic Interface for Functional Animation of Dormant Motor Nerve Roots in Spinal Cord Injury via Neuromodulation

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Potential

Parallel Electric Circuitry

Future Mobility

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

A Novel Electromagnetic-Neurobiologic Interface for Functional Animation of Dormant Motor Nerve Roots in Spinal Cord Injury via Neuromodulation

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Potential

Parallel Electric Circuitry

Future Mobility

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?