From the Guidelines
A BrainPort is a sensory substitution device that helps blind people "see" through their tongue, leveraging the brain's neuroplasticity to interpret electrical signals from a camera as visual information. The concept of a BrainPort is not directly mentioned in the provided evidence [ 1 ], which focuses on the prevention of device-related infections in patients with cancer, discussing Ommaya reservoirs and external ventricular drains. However, based on general medical knowledge, a BrainPort is known to be a device that assists blind individuals by converting visual information into electrical signals that are interpreted by the tongue. Key aspects of the BrainPort include:
- A camera that captures visual information
- Conversion of this information into electrical signals
- An electrode array on the tongue that receives these signals
- The brain's ability to adapt and interpret these signals as visual input, thanks to neuroplasticity The use of such a device can significantly improve the quality of life for blind individuals by enhancing their independence and spatial awareness.
From the Research
Definition of Brain Port
- A brain port refers to a minimally invasive retraction system used in neurosurgery to access deep-seated lesions in the brain 2, 3, 4.
- It is a transtubular system composed of simple tools that are available in all medical facilities, allowing for safe, simple, and cost-effective brain retraction 2.
Types of Brain Port Systems
- There are several types of brain port systems available, including the ViewSite Brain Access System and the BrainPath 3.
- A custom-made syringe port system has also been developed, which is cost-effective and can be made from disposable syringes 3, 4.
Advantages of Brain Port Systems
- Brain port systems minimize damage to surrounding tissues by exerting equal pressure on the walls of the cylinder 3.
- They reduce the risk of injury to essential brain tracts and parenchyma, and can be used with neuronavigation to ensure safe and accurate access to deep-seated lesions 3.
- The syringe port system has been shown to be a safe and effective alternative to costly disposable brain port systems, especially in developing countries 4.
Clinical Applications of Brain Port Systems
- Brain port systems can be used for the minimally invasive transportal resection of deep-seated brain lesions, including ventricular tumors, colloid cysts, deep-seated gliomas, and basal ganglia hemorrhages 4.
- They have been used in clinical practice to treat patients with deep-seated lesions, with no operative site hematoma or contusions reported along the port entry site and tract 4.