#United States #Kessler Foundation #Summit #Spinal Stimulation #Overlook Medical Center

A Milestone in Spinal Injury Rehabilitation

In a remarkable advancement for spinal injury treatment, the Kessler Foundation, in collaboration with Overlook Medical Center, has successfully implanted a cutting-edge spinal cord epidural stimulator. The surgery took place at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, New Jersey, marking a significant step forward in restoring mobility and autonomic functions for individuals affected by paralysis.

The procedure was led by Dr. Robert F. Heary, a renowned neurosurgeon, and funded by the generous support of the Joseph and Cheryl Marino Family Foundation. This innovative therapy combines electrical stimulation of the spinal cord with intensive physical training, aiming to enhance motor skills and further improve the quality of life for patients living with spinal cord injuries.

The Impact of Epidural Spinal Stimulation

Dr. Gail Forrest, Director of the Reynolds Center at Kessler Foundation, remarked on the success of this pioneering project, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize patients' lives through advanced therapeutic methods. The epidural stimulator delivers electrical impulses directly into the spinal cord, potentially reinvigorating essential bodily functions, including bladder control and motor abilities.

As part of an exploratory NIH-funded study connected to The BRAIN Initiative, researchers will investigate how this treatment can further aid individuals experiencing paralysis for less than twelve months. This research aims not only to advance medical knowledge but also to develop a more comprehensive understanding of spinal cord injuries and recovery strategies.

Dr. Claudia Angeli, the Assistant Director of the Reynolds Center, expressed enthusiasm for expanding their research, aiming to make this technology more accessible to all individuals with spinal cord injuries. With over 70 patients contributing to significant advancements at the Reynolds Center, the collaboration between Kessler Foundation and Atlantic Health System anticipates more surgeries in the future, continuing their critical research and patient support efforts.

Kessler Foundation: A Leader in Disability Research

Kessler Foundation is a recognized nonprofit dedicated to advancing disability research, focusing particularly on neurological and developmental disabilities arising from traumatic brain injuries, strokes, and spinal cord injuries. Through innovative programs, Kessler aims to improve mobility, cognition, and long-term outcomes, including vocational rehabilitation for affected individuals.

Their partnership with Atlantic Health System, responsible for connecting various healthcare services across New Jersey, highlights a community approach to addressing health challenges. With 21,000 dedicated team members and a comprehensive network of care facilities, Atlantic Health System ensures continuous support and medical attention for those in need.

As the BRAIN Initiative seeks to expand the understanding of brain function and recovery, the outcomes of this preliminary research are eagerly awaited. The potential to restore mobility and enhance overall life quality for individuals with spinal cord injuries is an exciting frontier in medical science.

The focus on this promising spinal cord stimulation therapy reflects the ongoing commitment of Kessler Foundation and its partners to lead in rehabilitation research. The recent surgery's success marks not just a triumph for individual patients and their families but also represents a beacon of hope for the future of spinal injury recovery efforts.

Conclusion

This groundbreaking achievement in New Jersey by Kessler Foundation and Overlook Medical Center embodies the significant strides made in the field of spinal recovery. The implications for future research and therapy indicate a hopeful pathway for improving lives, providing those with spinal cord injuries renewed purpose and possibility. With ongoing studies planned, the optimistic projections about enhancing life quality for paralysis patients continue to grow.