 has performed Canada’s first Neuralink brain implant surgeries — and the first outside the U.S. The procedures, part of the CAN-PRIME clinical trial at Toronto Western Hospital, aim to help people with paralysis control devices using their thoughts. Led by neurosurgeon Dr. Andres Lozano, the surgeries mark a major milestone in brain-computer interface technology and patient care.){kind=link}
A team at Toronto Western Hospital has made medical history, performing Canada’s first Neuralink brain implant surgeries — and the first outside the United States.
The two groundbreaking procedures, completed on August 27 and September 3, are part of a Canadian clinical trial exploring how the technology could help people with paralysis regain independence. Neuralink’s brain-computer interface uses a wireless implant and a robotic surgical system to translate brain activity into digital commands, allowing patients to operate devices like smartphones, computers, or even robotic arms with their thoughts.
The surgeries were led by Dr. Andres Lozano, one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons. “It’s a profound honour to lead Canada’s first Neuralink surgeries,” Dr. Lozano said. “This milestone brings together neuroscience, engineering and patient care. The volunteers who stepped forward to be the first in Canada are remarkable people, helping to push the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Dr. Thomas Forbes, Surgeon-in-Chief at University Health Network (UHN), called the achievement a major leap forward. “This is about giving people living with paralysis new ways to connect with the world around them,” he said. “We’re proud that this work is happening here in Toronto.”
The Canadian trial, known as CAN-PRIME, is still recruiting. People with limited or no hand function due to spinal cord injury or ALS may qualify to participate. Patients who receive the implant will take part in ongoing research sessions as they learn to use the device.
About UHN
UHN is Canada’s largest research hospital, with a global reputation for innovation in surgery, neuroscience, cancer, and rehabilitation. Its team of more than 44,000 staff, physicians, and learners work across Toronto General, Toronto Western, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto Rehab, The Michener Institute of Education, and West Park Healthcare Centre.
About Neuralink
Neuralink is a neurotechnology company developing brain-computer interfaces designed to help restore movement, communication, and independence for people with paralysis. The company is running clinical trials in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and the U.A.E.