A recent study suggests the use of brain implants to assist in the motor recovery of patients who have suffered a stroke
After a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), some areas of the brain may be permanently damaged, affecting cognitive and motor functions. As a result, these factors directly influence the patient’s quality of life. However, new studies have pointed to some promising treatment possibilities, such as the use of brain implants.
Brain implants for stroke: how do they work?
A recent study published by the scientific journal Nature indicated that the use of implants in the cerebellum can help patients after a stroke. That is, a small structure located in the lower back part of the brain. The goal would be deep brain stimulation, which can have positive effects on the motor recovery of patients who have suffered a stroke.
The study evaluated 12 individuals with moderate to severe upper extremity impairment over a period of 1 to 3 years, who achieved improvements of approximately 15 points on the Fugl-Meyer assessment of the upper extremity after a period of 20 to 24 months including treatment and follow-up.
A promising prospect
According to neurosurgeon Dr. Bruno Burjaili, the approach is promising because it uses a mechanism already known for treating the consequences of stroke. However, further studies are still needed.
“The brain electrodes analyzed in the study are similar to those already used in the treatments of Parkinson’s disease, dystonia and essential tremor. The novelty brought by the study is their use in the cerebellum to promote recovery from the consequences of stroke”, he explains .
For Bruno the results are encouraging, but they are not yet sufficient for the procedure to become part of clinical practice. “Therefore, more comprehensive studies are needed on its long-term effects, the ideal form of surgery, subsequent follow-up, indication, among other factors. If this new strategy is actually established, it could make a difference in recovery of lost functions”, underlines the doctor.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
