A man paralysed from the waist down after a motorbike accident five years ago has been able to walk again thanks to an electrical implant developed by Swiss researchers. Michel Roccati, whose spinal cord was completely severed, is the first person with such an injury to walk freely using the technology.
The implant, surgically attached to the spine, sends signals directly to the legs, bypassing the damaged nerves. While it is not a cure and remains too complex for everyday use, the research team at Lausanne University Hospital describes it as a major step in improving quality of life for spinal injury patients.
Michel told the BBC: 'It is a gift to me. I stand up, walk where I want to, I can walk the stairs – it's almost a normal life.' He credited his determination and rigorous rehabilitation for his progress. Neurosurgeon Prof Jocelyne Bloch added: 'Michel is absolutely incredible. He should be able to use this technology to progress and be better and better.'
Another patient, David M'zee, who received the implant earlier, regained enough health to become a father. His partner Janine gave birth to a daughter, Zoe, now one year old. David noted the implant also helped with hypotension, a common issue after spinal injury, saying: 'It's these small things that make a big difference.'
So far, nine people have received the implant and regained walking ability, though only in clinical settings. Dr Ram Hariharan, a consultant at Sheffield's Northern General Hospital, called the results promising but stressed the need for larger trials to confirm safety and effectiveness.
