World's First Minimally Invasive Epidural Brain-Computer Interface Patient Shows Good Recovery 3 Years After Implantation

Background

In 2009, a patient referred to as Lao Yang sustained a severe cervical spinal cord injury in a car accident. The injury was classified as ASIA A grade, resulting in complete loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury and leading to quadriplegia. For the next 14 years, he relied on his wife for all daily care and activities.

What was achieved

On October 24, 2023, Lao Yang underwent the world's first implantation of a minimally invasive epidural brain-computer interface as part of a clinical trial conducted by Xuanwu Hospital in collaboration with Tsinghua University. Three years later, on October 24, 2026, his progress was presented via video at the 2026 Brain Science and Brain Disease Academic Annual Conference and the 2026 Annual Academic Conference of the National Neurological Disease Medical Center (Xuanwu).

He had regained the ability to actively grasp with his right hand and drink independently from a cup. Improvements were also reported in sensory functions, including temperature and pain sensation. In the video, he used his right hand to hold a spoon, scoop cake, and bring it to his mouth. He fulfilled a personal wish to pour a cup of water for his wife by himself. The updates confirmed the technology's long-term safety and efficacy with no reported adverse events over the period.

How it works

The minimally invasive epidural brain-computer interface involves surgically placing two small processors, each approximately the size of a coin, inside the skull but outside the dura mater, the membrane protecting the brain. The procedure requires only small openings in the skull bone and does not penetrate the dura or brain tissue itself. Immediately after implantation, the devices successfully recorded clear and stable neural signals from the brain's sensory-motor areas.

These signals, generated when the patient intends to move, are transmitted wirelessly. External systems decode the brain activity to interpret movement intentions. In rehabilitation, this information can control assistive devices such as a robotic glove to enable hand function or provide feedback during training to promote neural recovery and voluntary movement over time. The patient was discharged 10 days after the 2023 procedure.

What it means for international patients

Xuanwu Hospital operates an International Medical Department that provides services in English and French, with a focus on neurological conditions including those treated by neurosurgery and rehabilitation medicine. International patients seeking care for spinal cord injuries or interested in advanced neurotechnologies such as brain-computer interfaces may find the hospital's expertise relevant.

Eligibility for specific clinical programs or new technologies depends on individual medical assessment, trial status if applicable, and hospital criteria. Patients should contact the hospital's International Medical Department directly to confirm current availability, undergo evaluation, and obtain personalized information. No pricing or guarantees of access are reported in public sources.

About the hospital

Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University is a Grade A tertiary comprehensive hospital located at 45 Changchun Street in Beijing's Xicheng District. Founded in 1958 and affiliated with Capital Medical University, it serves as China's National Center for Neurological Diseases and houses the China International Neuroscience Institute (China-INI). It is recognized for national key disciplines in neurology and neurosurgery, as well as expertise in geriatrics and the National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases.

The neurosurgery department performs more than 14,000 operations annually and is equipped with advanced intraoperative imaging, navigation, and robotic systems. The hospital has approximately 2,800 beds and emphasizes integrated care, research, and training in neuroscience. Its International Medical Department supports overseas patients seeking neurological and related specialty care.