China Completes World's First Commercial Brain Chip Surgery

China has completed the world's first commercial surgical procedure involving an invasive brain computer interface device. This operation, utilising a system approved in March, signifies a notable advancement in the country's neurotechnology efforts, placing it in rivalry with Elon Musk's Neuralink.

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The South China Morning Post reports Chinese surgeons implanted a neural chip, approximately the size of a coin, into a patient. This individual had experienced impaired hand mobility for a decade, stemming from a spinal cord injury. A statement from the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality detailed this medical event. The patient's recovery has been stable, with consistent vital signs following the procedure at Huashan Hospital. High quality epidural brain signals were successfully captured.

So, the NEO device, developed by Neuracle Medical Technology, a local start up, is designed to assist with hand movement. Its placement is on the outer surface of the brain, without penetrating tissue. The device operates by reading neural signals directly from the brain, then translating them into intended hand motions.

The NEO system became the first commercially prescribed brain computer interface globally after its formal approval by China's National Medical Products Administration in March. This critical regulatory clearance allowed the device's transition from confined laboratories and clinical trials, making it a commercial product.

Following this clearance, Neuracle Medical Technology swiftly initiated full scale production of the NEO device. Hospital introductions commenced, alongside patient screening. The device also gained inclusion in local commercial health insurance schemes. These crucial stages completed within four months, according to the official statement.

And this development highlights China's stated national ambition to lead the global race for brain computer interface technology. The nation has designated this field as a future industry crucial for economic growth. Plans exist to cultivate two or three global leaders by 2030, underscoring the country's commitment.

The Chinese government issued a blueprint in Jul. of the previous year, establishing targets for breakthroughs by 2027. These included an advanced technology system and a robust industrial framework for brain computer interface technologies. Neuracle, the Shanghai based developer, initiated its Star Market listing process in Feb. to secure additional financial resources for research and expanding production capabilities.

By comparison, Elon Musk's organisation, Neuralink, has yet to secure full commercial approval from the US Food and Drug Administration. This regulatory status means its devices are not yet available for widespread commercial use. Despite this, Neuralink has reportedly enrolled more than 20 patients in trials for its initial product, Telepathy. This system aims to enable individuals with paralysis to directly control external digital devices, including computers, phones, and robotic limbs.

But this recent surgical application of the NEO device by Chinese medical professionals represents a concrete step in the broader international competition for dominance in neurotechnology. Advancements from organisations like Neuracle Medical Technology and Neuralink underscore the rapid pace of innovation within Big Tech and medical device sectors.

• China has completed the world's first commercial invasive brain computer interface implant surgery.

• The NEO device, developed by Neuracle Medical Technology, assists hand movement by reading brain signals without penetrating tissue.

• China's National Medical Products Administration approved the NEO device for commercial use in March.

• This places China in direct competition with Elon Musk's Neuralink, which awaits full commercial approval in the US.

• The Chinese government aims to establish two or three global leaders in BCI technology by 2030.

Source: SCMP