People with sensory impairments can have a sigh of relief! A groundbreaking surgical procedure empowered by artificial intelligence (AI) has paved the way for potentially restoring sight, hearing, and communication abilities. Dr. Eddie Chang, the chairman of neurological surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, has revealed that AI could hold the key not only to restoring lost functions but also to achieving unprecedented results like "mind reading."
This groundbreaking innovation came to light through the story of Ann Johnson, a Canadian teacher who suffered a debilitating stroke in 2005. The stroke left her paralyzed and unable to speak. A remarkable surgical intervention transformed her life, connecting her brain to AI in an astounding manner. Over 250 electrodes were delicately placed on her brain. These connections were then interfaced with a network of computers through a port on the back of her head.
The essence of this procedure rested in its ability to decode Johnson's brain activity into comprehensible English. This was achieved through the use of an AI-generated model that spoke on her behalf, enabling her to communicate once again.
Dr. Eddie Chang, the visionary neuroscientist who spearheaded Johnson's surgery, sees AI as a versatile tool that transcends its application in post-paralysis restoration. He emphasizes the potential for AI to extend its impact towards restoring vision and addressing certain forms of hearing impairment.
The success of this surgery opens doors to various possibilities previously thought unimaginable. With the intricate mapping of brain activity and AI's ability to interpret and translate it into meaningful communication, this breakthrough could herald a new era of medical advancement.
