Artificial intelligence is being credited by doctors as a modern medical "miracle" for a Long Island man who was paralyzed in a diving accident and has now regained motion and feeling in his body. This incredible achievement was made possible through a breakthrough surgery that utilized machine learning and microelectrode implants to connect a computer to his brain. Experts at Manhasset's Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research are hailing this case as a pioneer example of AI-infused surgeries that have the potential to treat or cure previously incurable conditions such as blindness, deafness, ALS, seizures, cerebral palsy, and Parkinson's. The surgery marks the first time that a paralyzed person has regained movement and sensation through electronic linking of the brain, body, and spinal cord. Chad Bouton, a professor at Feinstein's Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, expresses optimism that this groundbreaking procedure may help millions of individuals worldwide with a wider range of conditions. Keith Thomas, a 45-year-old man from Massapequa, suffered a severe neck and spinal injury while diving three summers ago. Despite being initially told he would never regain movement below the neck, Thomas remained determined to recover. Thomas's resilience and support from loved ones led to a successful GoFundMe campaign, raising over $360, 000 to meet his needs after the accident. Dr. Ashesh Mehta, director of the Institute's Laboratory of Human Brain Mapping, praises Thomas's positive attitude and perseverance as contributing factors in his selection as an ideal candidate for the surgery. The complex and high-pressure 15-hour surgery required Thomas to be awake at times to communicate with the medical team.

Thomas's unwavering spirit remained intact, and he even managed to make jokes during the operation. After a successful surgery and a week of recovery, Thomas experienced a heartwarming moment when he was able to hold his sister's hand for the first time since the accident. The surgery has granted Thomas renewed hope for independence and personal autonomy. The impact of this surgical breakthrough is not lost on Thomas, who recognizes the long road to his current state. Undeniably, the revolutionary fusion of artificial intelligence and medical science has paved the way for remarkable advancements in undoing the detrimental effects of paralysis. Mehta's meticulous placement of minuscule electrodes into Thomas's brain highlights the complexity of the procedure. Thomas is now undergoing specialized training sessions to adjust to the minute computers integrated into his head. The two-way relationship between Thomas and the machines allows them to learn from one another, further expanding the potential of this technology. The medical team believes that as a result of this neurologic rewiring, Thomas's progress could eventually extend to walking again, restoring sight to the blind, and enabling the deaf to hear. With the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, this medical breakthrough has elevated the bar for future AI-driven interventions.