Brain Implants
Overview
Brain-computer interfaces, also known as neural interfaces, are bridges that connect the brain to external devices. These neuroprostheses record electrical activity in the brain and transmit thoughts—neuronal activity—to external devices, such as computers or prosthetic devices. The external devices then translate the intended actions into outputs, such as movement.
In 2004, the first modern BCI aimed at restoring lost function was implanted in a person's motor cortex following a spinal cord injury. Modern BCIs, many of which are experimental and geared toward helping people with physical disabilities, are helping patients with paralysis regain some lost functions in clinical trials, and may improve over time as machine learning enables scientists to build a dictionary of neural activity and the patient's intended outcomes.
Outside of the immediate medical risks of surgery and infection, there may be long-term and yet-to-be-determined BCI-related side effects. The early nature of BCIs also means there's a risk of implants being discontinued, of technology losing support, and of implant manufacturers and developers going out of business.
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