Electrocorticographically controlled brain–computer interfaces using motor and sensory imagery in patients with temporary subdural electrode implants

TLDR

Brain‑computer interface technology translates recorded brain signals into real‑time actions, offering individuals with severe motor disabilities greater independence and improved communication, movement, or perception. Four patients with clinical need for intracranial ECoG were trained over multiple sessions to use motor and/or auditory imagery to modulate their brain signals and control a computer cursor. Participants with electrodes over motor and/or sensory areas achieved cursor control within 2 to 7 days of training, demonstrating that sensory and other non‑motor brain regions can serve as additional control channels for ECoG‑based BCIs.

Abstract

✓Brain–computer interface (BCI) technology can offer individuals with severe motor disabilities greater independence and a higher quality of life. The BCI systems take recorded brain signals and translate them into real-time actions, for improved communication, movement, or perception. Four patient participants with a clinical need for intracranial electrocorticography (ECoG) participated in this study. The participants were trained over multiple sessions to use motor and/or auditory imagery to modulate their brain signals in order to control the movement of a computer cursor. Participants with electrodes over motor and/or sensory areas were able to achieve cursor control over 2 to 7 days of training. These findings indicate that sensory and other brain areas not previously considered ideal for ECoG-based control can provide additional channels of control that may be useful for a motor BCI.