Neuralink performs successful brain implants in spinal injury patients
Two people in Toronto have become the first in Canada to receive Neuralink’s brain-computer interface implants.
The procedures, carried out at University Health Network (UHN) on 27 August and 3 September, involved patients with cervical spinal cord injuries – damage to the neck that can cause paralysis in the arms and legs.
Each patient received Neuralink’s wireless device through robotic surgery as part of the CAN-PRIME Study, which is testing both the implant and the surgical robot.
The trial is assessing safety and whether people with paralysis can use thought to control devices such as cursors, text messaging or robotic arms.
Canada is the second country outside the US to host such operations, following Neuralink’s UK launch last month in its first European clinical trial.
Dr Thomas Forbes, surgeon-in-chief at UHN, said: “We are incredibly proud to be at the forefront of this revolutionary advancement in neurosurgery.”
The brain-computer interface is designed to restore some independence in daily life for people with paralysis.
It could allow someone with quadriplegia – paralysis of all four limbs – to check emails, use social media or operate smart devices at home.
The Canadian team was led by Dr Andres Lozano, Alan and Susan Hudson Cornerstone Chair in Neurosurgery at UHN.
“This milestone represents a convergence of neuroscience, engineering, and clinical care,” Lozano said.
“The patients who volunteered to be the first in Canada are remarkable individuals, making significant contributions to advancing science and healthcare.”
Recruitment for CAN-PRIME is ongoing. People with cervical spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – a condition that progressively damages nerve cells controlling muscles – may be eligible.
Participants will take part in follow-up sessions to practise using the device.
UHN, Canada’s largest research hospital, is described as one of the world’s leading centres for surgical innovation.
Hosting Neuralink’s first Canadian trial adds to its neuroscience role.
Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk, is developing what it calls a high-bandwidth brain-computer interface.
Human trials have already taken place in the US, where earlier this year a patient used the implant to control a computer.
The technology remains experimental, with safety and reliability still to be proven.
Neuralink plans to expand trials to 20–30 participants by the end of 2025 while pursuing further regulatory approvals in the US and abroad.
The company is also exploring wider applications, including helping stroke patients regain speech and restoring vision.
It has also suggested future possibilities such as sharing or transferring memories and skills.
