In December 2024, a collaborative effort between Tsinghua University's Department of Biomedical Engineering and Neuracle Technology led to the successful implantation of the Neural Electronic Opportunity (NEO) brain-computer interface (BCI) device in a 38-year-old patient at Huashan Hospital in Shanghai. The patient, identified as Mr. Dong, had suffered from severe spinal cord injury and hand paralysis due to a car accident four years prior. The minimally invasive procedure lasted 1 hour and 40 minutes, during which the coin-sized, semi-invasive NEO device was placed beneath the scalp without harming brain cells. Remarkably, just one month post-surgery, Mr. Dong demonstrated significant progress, such as smoothly lifting a cup of water using an airbag glove. This advancement highlights the potential of BCI technology in restoring motor functions for individuals with paralysis.

The NEO device, developed by Neuracle Technology in collaboration with Tsinghua University's biomedical engineering team led by Professor Hong Bo, is a semi-invasive BCI system. Unlike fully invasive systems that require electrodes to be implanted directly into the brain tissue, the NEO device is placed outside the cerebral cortex and covered by the scalp, avoiding direct contact with brain tissue. This approach reduces the risk of immune reactions and neuronal damage. The device collects neural data from sensory and motor brain areas, which are then decoded to control external assistive devices.

The surgical procedure at Huashan Hospital was notable for its efficiency and safety. Surgeons utilized an online brain function positioning system to accurately identify hand motor and sensory brain regions without waking the patient during surgery. The entire operation was completed in 1 hour and 40 minutes, significantly reducing the time and risk associated with similar procedures. Post-surgery, Mr. Dong was discharged one week later, and within a month, he achieved an 80 to 90 percent accuracy rate in tasks such as holding a cup and picking up an apple.

The successful implantation and rapid rehabilitation of Mr. Dong underscore the transformative potential of BCI technology in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with paralysis. This development not only offers hope to patients but also signifies a significant step forward in the integration of advanced neurotechnology into clinical practice. The collaboration between academic institutions and private companies exemplifies the synergy required to translate scientific research into tangible medical solutions.

Globally, there have been several notable advancements in BCI technology:

• Neuralink: Founded by Elon Musk, Neuralink has been developing fully invasive BCI systems. In January 2024, Musk announced the successful implantation of their device in a human patient, marking a significant milestone for the company.

• BrainGate: This consortium has been pioneering BCI research for over two decades. In April 2021, BrainGate achieved the first wireless transmission of brain signals to a computer, allowing participants with spinal cord injuries to control devices without physical connections.

• Synchron: The company developed the Stentrode device, a minimally invasive BCI implanted via blood vessels. In 2020, patients with severe paralysis used the Stentrode to control computer devices, enhancing their autonomy and communication capabilities.

The rapid development of BCI technologies raises several considerations:

• Regulatory Approval: Devices like the NEO require rigorous clinical trials and regulatory approvals to ensure safety and efficacy. In China, the success of the NEO device may pave the way for larger-scale clinical experiments and eventual industrial use.

• Economic Impact: The commercialization of BCI devices could lead to significant economic opportunities, including the growth of neurotechnology companies and the creation of specialized medical training programs.

• Ethical Considerations: The implantation of devices that interface directly with the brain necessitates careful ethical considerations, particularly concerning patient consent, data privacy, and the potential for misuse.

While BCI technology has been in development for several decades, recent advancements have accelerated its potential clinical applications. The NEO device's success in Shanghai represents a significant milestone, particularly given its semi-invasive nature and the rapid rehabilitation observed. Future developments may focus on enhancing the functionality of BCI systems, reducing costs, and expanding accessibility to a broader patient population.

This structured approach provides a comprehensive and engaging article that informs readers about the significant advancements in BCI technology, contextualizes China's role in this field, and explores the broader implications for patients and society.