A BCI allows individuals to operate a computer with their mind alone. Small electrodes on the surface of the brain carry signals to the computer, letting patients more easily communicate with family and friends.
For patients with significant motor impairment, a BCI system can potentially provide greater independence and quality of life. The study involves surgical implantation of electrodes. After surgery, participants will learn how to operate the BCI.
Image Source: Fully Implanted Brain-Computer Interface in a Locked-In Patient with ALS. Vansteensel MJ, Pels EGM, Bleichner MG, Branco MP, Denison T, Freudenburg ZV, Gosselaar P, Leinders S, Ottens TH, Van Den Boom MA, Van Rijen PC, Aarnoutse EJ, Ramsey NF.N Engl J Med. 2016 Nov 24;375(21):2060-2066. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1608085. Epub 2016 Nov 12. PMID: 27959736