World’s First Robotic Deep Brain Stimulation in Children with severe movement disorder Performed at Oklahoma Children's Hospital

Good news! Amazing stuff!

Now we may return the favor and deep brain stimulate robots! (just kidding)

"In a groundbreaking achievement, Oklahoma Children’s Hospital OU Health has performed the world’s first robotic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) procedure in a pediatric patient, resulting in immediate improvement in motor function the child did not have prior.

DBS, a surgical technique involving the implantation of electrodes into specific brain regions, has traditionally been used to treat movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor and dystonia. This procedure and the particular device have never been performed robotically in pediatric patients until now. The use of robotics enhances the surgical precision and safety of the procedure while also unlocking new possibilities for improved patient outcomes. ...

8-year-old Karleigh Fry, who has rapid-onset primary dystonia, a movement disorder that causes the muscles to react involuntarily. Initially Karleigh was paralyzed and could not eat, walk or even sit up on her own. Despite many different medications, she recovered only a bit, but had at times self-injurious dystonia. ...
When the neurostimulator was activated after the procedure, Karleigh was able to lower and relax her arms within minutes, something she was unable to do prior. Her movements are becoming more controllable, and her verbalization has shown improvement as well. ..."

World’s First Robotic Deep Brain Stimulation in Children Performed at Oklahoma Children's Hospital

Credits: Roboter führte erstmals eine Tiefe Hirnstimulation bei Kindern durch