Neuralink confirms defect in the activity of the first brain implant, but the problem related to the device’s wires has been corrected, without complications
OR first patient in the world to live with a Neuralink brain implant accumulate achievements, such as controlling the mouse cursor and even playing video games or chess games with the power of your mind. Despite its success, the chip company co-founded by Elon Musk caused an unexpected defect, according to an announcement released on Wednesday (8). However, the problem was resolved and, apparently, it was all done without risking the health (or brain) of 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh.
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Basically, the wires from the implant receded into the brain a few weeks after the surgery. As a result, the number of functional electrodes (sensors) for reading neuronal activity was reduced. To correct the error, corrections have been made to the file Software so that it would be more sensitive to neuronal signals.
Since the use of the Neuralink chip in the human brain is still experimental, complications could occur. Including unexpected problems during preclinical tests on animals, infections may even occur. Therefore, the use of the plant is limited and is not expected to be commercialized anytime soon.
Flaw in Elon Musk’s chip
Despite the reported problem, Neuralink does not specify whether the quadriplegic patient had engagement issues the use of brain implants due to defects and failures. On the other hand, the company points out that the device is used quite frequently by Noland.
“During the week, Noland contributes research sessions for up to 8 hours per day. On weekends, personal and recreational use can exceed 10 hours per day. He recently used the device for a total of 69 hours in just one week,” the statement said.
Fix the brain chip problem
After identifying the defect, marked by the retraction of the wires, the Neuralink team got to work. “In response to this change, we modified the recording algorithm to make it more sensitive to signals from the neural population, improved techniques for translating these signals into cursor movements, and improved the user interface,” explains the team. Therefore, the initial functionality has been restored.
What caused the brain implant defect?
To the news site Bloomberg, Eric Leuthardt, a neurosurgeon at the University of Washington School of Medicine, suggests that the defect involving Musk’s chip occurred because of the brain’s behavior. Leuthardt has no direct connection to Neuralink.
“One thing that engineers and scientists cannot evaluate is how much the brain moves in the intracranial space,” says the expert. “Simply shaking your head or moving it sharply can cause disturbances of several millimeters,” he adds. This movement may have negatively affected the system and wires, compromising their reading.
The future of the Neuralink brain implant
Neuralink is currently trying to increase the number of patients during trials with the brain chip. Although the flaw has been corrected, with apparent success, the problem could delay the ongoing clinical trial. To date, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the North American agency responsible for authorizing the research, has not commented on the case.
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Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
