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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
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An Implantable System For Chronic In Vivo Electromyography
Published on: April 21, 2020
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Surface electromyographic control of speech synthesis.
Summary
This study presents a novel speech-generating system for individuals with high spinal cord injuries. Facial gestures control a voice synthesizer, offering a promising communication method for ventilator-dependent patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Assistive Technology
Background:
- Individuals with high spinal cord injuries (e.g., C1-C3) often require mechanical ventilation, impairing natural speech production.
- Preserved facial muscle function, innervated by cranial nerves, presents an opportunity for alternative communication pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel communication system utilizing surface electromyography (sEMG) signals from facial muscles.
- To enable voice synthesis and control of a phonemic interface for individuals with high spinal cord injuries.
Main Methods:
- A system was developed to record sEMG from facial muscles.
- Five distinct facial gestures were used to control an onscreen cursor and a phonemic interface.
- The system was tested in healthy individuals to assess performance.
Main Results:
- Users successfully controlled the cursor and phonemic interface using facial gestures.
- Mean information transfer rates (ITRs) of 59.5 bits/min were achieved based on phoneme selection.
- When calculated based on equivalent letters for word spelling, mean ITRs reached 70.1 bits/min.
Conclusions:
- The developed sEMG-based facial gesture control system shows significant promise for restoring communication.
- This technology offers a viable solution for ventilator-dependent individuals with high spinal cord injuries.
- Further development and clinical testing in the target population are warranted.
