Brain Implant Surgeries Now Available In Canada

After a successful first brain-computer interface implant surgery in the United Kingdom last month, Neuralink has now conducted procedures on two people in Toronto, marking its first surgeries in Canada.

The surgeries took place at University Health Network (UHN) on 27 August and 3 September as reported by Neetika Walter of Interesting Engineering.

These implants involved individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries receiving Neuralink’s wireless device via robotic surgery as part of the CAN-PRIME Study.

It follows Neuralink’s earlier UK launch in its first European clinical trial, making Canada the second country outside the US hosting such operations.

The CAN-PRIME Study is testing both the implant and the surgical robot. Its goal is to evaluate safety and to see if people with paralysis can use thought to control external devices. Participants could learn to move a cursor, send a text, or operate a robotic arm.

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 Canadian team was led by Dr. Andres Lozano, Alan and Susan Hudson Cornerstone Chair in Neurosurgery at UHN.

Lozano said, "This milestone represents a convergence of neuroscience, engineering, and clinical care."

He added, "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) may be eligible. Patients who join will attend follow-up appointments and research sessions to practice using the device.

For patients, the impact could be life-changing. The implant is designed to restore some control in daily routines. It could allow a person with quadriplegia to check emails, interact on social media, or use smart devices at home.

These tasks are simple for many people, but can transform life for those with paralysis.

The surgeries also highlight Canada’s growing role in neurotechnology. UHN is Canada’s largest research hospital and one of the world’s top centers for surgical innovation. Hosting Neuralink’s first Canadian trial adds to its reputation as a leader in neuroscience.