Breakthrough in Brain-Computer Interface Research – with LUCY in the OR

We’re proud to share that our LUCY OR Head Holder & 8-Ch Coil was used in China’s first human clinical trial of an invasive brain-computer interface (BCI), recently conducted in Shanghai.

Only months after the revolutionary implantation of the device at Huashan Hospital, a Chinese man who lost all four limbs in a high-voltage electrical accident can now play chess and racing games - using only his mind.

The whole implant measures only 26 mm in diameter and less than 6 mm in thickness, roughly the size of a coin. Its ultra-flexible neural electrodes are incredibly fine, measuring only about 1 percent of the diameter of a human hair. The system decodes neural signals in real time (within tens of milliseconds) and in the next steps intends to enable the patient to control robotic arms and other complex devices.

As accurate placement in the patient's motor cortex was vital, high-precision positioning and navigation tools played an important role during the minimally invasive procedure.

We are honored that our LUCY could contribute to this pioneering milestone that holds the potential to enhance the quality of life of millions of patients.