From the Guidelines
A brain-computer interface (BCI) is a system that enables people to control devices with their thoughts by translating brain activity into commands. This technology has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with conditions such as paralysis or ALS, by allowing them to communicate and interact with their environment in ways that were previously impossible 1.
Key Components of BCIs
- BCIs work by detecting and interpreting brain signals, typically using sensors that measure electrical activity in the brain through methods like electroencephalography (EEG), electrocorticography (ECoG), or implanted electrodes.
- These systems can be non-invasive, such as headsets, or surgically implanted devices, with various companies like Neuralink developing advanced implantable interfaces.
Medical Applications
- BCIs have important medical applications, particularly for people with paralysis, ALS, or other conditions that limit physical movement.
- They enable individuals to communicate and interact with their environment, which can greatly improve their morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1.
Future Developments
- While current BCIs primarily serve assistive purposes, future applications may include enhanced human cognition, treatment of neurological disorders, and new forms of human-computer interaction.
- However, these developments raise important ethical questions about privacy, identity, and cognitive liberty, which must be carefully considered as the technology continues to evolve 1.
Current Evidence
- The current evidence on the use of BCIs in rehabilitation is limited, with insufficient evidence to recommend for or against non-invasive brain-computer interface to improve upper extremity motor outcomes and activities of daily living 1.
- Therefore, the use of BCIs should be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual's specific needs and circumstances, and prioritizing their morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.
From the Research
Definition of Brain-Computer Interface
- A brain-computer interface (BCI) is a system that allows users to control external devices using brain activity, bypassing the dysfunctional motor system 2, 3.
- BCIs aim to help paralyzed patients interact with their environment and provide a means of communication for those with severe neuronal disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) 2, 4.
Types of Brain-Computer Interfaces
- Invasive BCIs use implanted electrodes in brain tissue to record brain activity 3, 4.
- Non-invasive BCIs use electrophysiological recordings, such as electroencephalography (EEG), to record brain activity 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Other non-invasive methods include functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) 3, 4.
Applications of Brain-Computer Interfaces
- BCIs can be used for communication with paralyzed patients, including those with locked-in syndrome 2, 3, 4.
- BCIs can also be used for movement restoration in patients with chronic stroke or other brain damage 3, 4, 6.
- Non-invasive BCIs can control robotic devices for complex tasks, such as daily life activities 5.
Challenges and Future Directions
- Substantial challenges with existing BCI implementations have prevented its widespread adoption, including the need for standardization of guidelines and protocols 6.
- Recent advances in knowledge and technology provide opportunities to facilitate a change, including the use of multimodal or multi-stage approaches and more sensitive neuroimaging technologies 6.
- Further research is needed to clarify the neural mechanisms that give rise to improvement in motor function and to quantify the contribution of non-motor mechanisms to motor recovery 6.