Spatiotemporal spinal cord stimulation with real‐time triggering exoskeleton restores walking capability: a case report

Abstract

ObjectiveMotor recovery is challenging for spinal cord injury (SCI), especially in low‐level SCI.MethodsA 16‐year‐old patient with complete SCI at T12 presented flaccid paralysis and inability to control defecation and was scored as ASIA A at admission. The patient underwent spinal cord stimulation (SCS) implantation at the T11‐L1, followed by an innovative algorithm combining spatiotemporal SCS with real‐time triggered exoskeleton training (EXS‐SCS).ResultsAfter 1 month of treatment, she gained substantial improvement in her iliopsoas and quadriceps femoris muscle strength to grade 3–4 as well as percutaneous EMG, allowing for assisted standing and walking, and was reassessed as ASIA C.InterpretationThis case reveals the potential of SCS‐EXS regimen in restoring walking capability of SCI patients.