Neuralink Reports Successful Second Human Implantation: Patient Controls Devices, Designs 3D Objects, and Plays CS2

Neuralink, the brain-computer interface company owned by Elon Musk, stated that its second human brain-computer implant surgery “went smoothly,” with the patient now able to design 3D objects and play video games such as Counter-Strike 2.

The surgery also appeared to successfully avoid the problem that plagued the first patient, Noland Arbaugh, who encountered an unexpected complication in which some of the electrode wires retracted from the brain tissue.

In a blog post, the company stated: “To reduce the probability of lead retraction in the second participant, we implemented a series of mitigation measures, including minimizing brain movement during the procedure and reducing the gap between the implant and the brain surface.”

In Arbaugh’s case, Neuralink adjusted the postoperative software, which also alleviated this issue.

The company stated that it is developing new features for its brain-computer interface device, Link, which currently allows patients to control on-screen cursors and digital devices through clicks. The company added that, in the future, Link will be capable of decoding multiple simultaneous intentions and recognizing handwritten intent to help patients write more quickly.

Neuralink stated, “These features can not only help those unable to use their limbs regain digital autonomy, but also help those unable to speak regain communication abilities, such as individuals with neurological disorders.”

Currently, the Link device is specifically designed for patients with quadriplegia and other severe motor impairments. Musk stated that the Neuralink implant may ultimately help enhance the capabilities of healthy individuals, such as aiding in memory recall.

This blog post identifies the patient as Alex, confirming that he is a former automotive technician with a spinal cord injury. One day after undergoing surgery, he was discharged from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, where Neuralink operates. The company stated that Alex is now able to use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create a custom mount for his Neuralink charger.

Musk has stated that he hopes to apply the device to more patients by the end of this year. The participants are part of the Neuralink Prime study, an investigational medical device trial.

Responsible Editor: Yu Jian SF069