University of Aberdeen scientists are believed to be the first in the world to use a combination of different methods – including a biodegradable ‘bridge’ made of silk fibre – to treat spinal cord injury.
The technique would involve placing a silk ‘bridge’ over the spinal injury wound and this would act as a scaffold for nerves to grow through. Electrical and chemical stimulation would also be applied to the area in a bid to encourage nerve growth and reconnections.
Scottish Rugby is helping to fund this research.