elmundo.es

Implantable Neuroprosthesis Restores Walking Ability in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Scientists in Switzerland developed an implantable spinal cord neuroprosthesis that helps individuals with spinal cord injuries walk again using robotic assistance; nine patients showed significant improvements, with four regaining some mobility without assistance after rehabilitation.

Read original article in Spanish

Spanish

Spain

HealthScienceRoboticsRehabilitationSpinal Cord InjuryBiomedical EngineeringNeuroprosthetics

Escuela Politécnica Federal De LausanaUniversidad Miguel Hernández De ElcheCentro De Investigación Biomédica En Red De BioingenieríaBiomateriales Y Nanomedicina (Ciber-Bbn)

Grégoire CourtineEduardo Fernández

How does this neuroprosthesis differ from traditional rehabilitation techniques, and what are the potential advantages?: This neuroprosthesis, detailed in Science Robotics, combines robotic assistance with epidural electrical stimulation to maximize muscle activation during rehabilitation. The synchronized system adapts to different robots and environments, potentially accelerating recovery compared to traditional methods that often fail to sufficiently activate all muscles.
What are the key challenges and next steps in research to fully realize the therapeutic potential of this neuroprosthesis?: Four patients in the study regained some walking ability without robotic assistance after rehabilitation. Further clinical trials are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and determine long-term impact and patient suitability, along with technology improvements for personalized treatment.
What immediate functional improvements resulted from using the new implantable spinal cord neuroprosthesis in patients with spinal cord injuries?: A new implantable spinal cord neuroprosthesis allows individuals with spinal cord injuries to regain movement by connecting to robotic devices. Nine patients regained walking or cycling ability with the device, showing neuromuscular activation and even recovery of control over previously paralyzed muscles in some cases, even after the device was turned off.

Cognitive Concepts

2/5

Framing Bias

The article is framed positively, emphasizing the promising results of the neuroprosthesis. The headline and introduction highlight the success of the technology and its potential to improve the lives of patients with spinal cord injuries. This positive framing is maintained throughout, although limitations are mentioned.

1/5

Language Bias

The language used is mostly neutral and objective, using descriptive terms like "promising results" rather than overly sensationalized language. However, phrases like "a point of inflection" and "a major breakthrough" could be considered slightly loaded, suggesting a higher level of certainty than the study design warrants.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses primarily on the positive aspects of the new neuroprosthesis and its success in the clinical trial. While it mentions the need for further research and limitations of the study, it doesn't delve into potential drawbacks or negative side effects of the technology. It also doesn't explore alternative approaches to spinal cord injury rehabilitation in detail. This omission might leave readers with an overly optimistic view of the technology's immediate applicability and effectiveness.

Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-being Very Positive

Direct Relevance

The developed neuroprosthesis significantly improves motor function in patients with spinal cord injuries, enabling them to walk or cycle with robotic assistance. The device also promotes neuromuscular activation and may lead to neurological recovery. Four patients even regained some walking ability without robotic assistance after rehabilitation.

Mar 13, 16:12

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Spreads Across Antarctica

A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus has spread throughout Antarctica, infecting various bird and mammal species, though penguin mortality remains surprisingly low. The virus, originally from China, was first detected in the Antarctic on February 24, 2024, and has already caused significant mortality in other species.

Mar 13, 19:11

Widespread PFAS Contamination in US Drinking Water

A USGS study reveals 71–95 million Americans may be exposed to PFAS in their drinking water, with the highest levels found in states like Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut; PFAS are used in various products and firefighting foam, contaminating groundwater; effective water treatment solutions are needed.

Mar 13, 16:12

European Breast Cancer Mortality Rates to Decline in 2025

A new study projects a decrease in breast cancer mortality rates in Europe by 2025, with a 4% decline in the EU and 6% in the UK compared to 2020, attributed to improved screening, diagnosis, and treatment; however, mortality rates are not projected to decrease for women over 80 in most European countries, and colorectal cancer deaths are increasing among young people due to obesity and a lack of screening.

Mar 13, 13:11

Microplastics Boost Antibiotic Resistance in E. coli Biofilms

A study found that microplastics significantly enhance the antibiotic resistance of E. coli biofilms, with E. coli grown on microplastics exhibiting faster growth, larger size, and dramatically increased resistance to four common antibiotics compared to those grown on glass beads, even after removal from the plastic.