MIT engineers have created a magnetically steerable robotic thread designed to navigate the brain's blood vessels for treating strokes, aneurysms, and other brain block conditions. The device aims to offer a less invasive alternative to current surgical methods.

The thread consists of a flexible nickel-titanium alloy core coated with magnetic particles in a rubbery paste and a smooth hydrogel outer layer for easy navigation. External magnets control its movement, potentially reducing surgeons' radiation exposure during procedures.

It was tested in life-sized silicone models of brain blood vessels, filled with fluid mimicking blood, the demonstration showed that the thread could navigate complex pathways. It is designed to deliver clot-reducing drugs or laser treatments directly to blockages. This technology seeks to make brain surgery less invasive, enhance safety for patients and surgeons, and open possibilities for remote interventions.