From the Guidelines
Brain computer interfaces (BCIs) are systems that enable people to control devices with their thoughts by translating neural activity into commands. These interfaces have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with severe motor disabilities or paralysis by providing them with a means of communication and control over their environment. According to the most recent guidelines, there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against the use of non-invasive brain-computer interfaces to improve upper extremity motor outcomes and activities of daily living 1. However, the technology behind BCIs is rapidly evolving, with advancements in signal processing, machine learning techniques, and component miniaturization potentially leading to more widespread applications in rehabilitation and human-computer interaction. Key aspects of BCIs include:
- The use of electroencephalography (EEG), electrocorticography (ECoG), or invasive microelectrode arrays to detect brain signals
- The interpretation of these signals using sophisticated algorithms to identify patterns associated with specific thoughts or intended movements
- The potential to help people with paralysis, locked-in syndrome, or severe motor disabilities regain communication abilities and control over their environment While the current evidence may not strongly support the use of BCIs for specific outcomes, the potential benefits of this technology in improving morbidity, mortality, and quality of life make it an area of significant interest and ongoing research.
From the Research
Definition and Purpose of Brain Computer Interfaces
- A brain-computer interface (BCI) is a hardware and software communications system that permits cerebral activity alone to control computers or external devices 2.
- The primary goal of BCI research is to provide communications capabilities to severely disabled people who are totally paralyzed or 'locked in' by neurological neuromuscular disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, brain stem stroke, or spinal cord injury 2, 3.
Components and Functionality of BCIs
- A standard BCI consists of several steps, including signal acquisition, preprocessing or signal enhancement, feature extraction, classification, and the control interface 2.
- BCIs can be invasive or non-invasive, using various technologies such as electroencephalography (EEG), functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), or electrocorticography (ECoG) to record brain activity 2, 4, 5.
- The recorded brain activity is then translated into commands that operate a computer or other device, allowing users to communicate or control external devices 2, 6.
Applications and Benefits of BCIs
- BCIs have the potential to improve the lives of individuals with severe disabilities, such as those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), by providing a means of communication and control 3, 6.
- BCIs can also be used to restore movement in individuals with paralysis or other motor disorders, and may augment rehabilitation protocols aimed at restoring useful motor function 6, 5.
- Recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility of BCIs in enhancing communication for people with later-stage ALS, particularly those in the locked-in state (LIS) or completely locked-in state (CLIS) 3, 4.