Using fMRI to localize target regions for implanted brain-computer interfaces in locked-in syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Electrocorticography (ECoG)-based brain-computer interface (BCI) systems offer communication restoration for individuals with locked-in syndrome (LIS).
• Accurate pre-implantation localization of ECoG electrode targets is crucial for system efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the predictive accuracy of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for identifying suitable sensorimotor cortex regions for ECoG-BCI implantation in LIS patients.
• To assess fMRI's utility in selecting optimal electrode sites for robust BCI control.

Main Methods:

• Three individuals with LIS received chronic, fully implantable ECoG-BCI systems.
• Pre-surgical fMRI data was compared with post-implantation ECoG activity during attempted hand movements, contrasting sensorimotor hand regions with the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

Main Results:

• A significant spatial correlation was observed between fMRI activity and ECoG power changes (10-30 Hz and 65-95 Hz) during attempted movements.
• fMRI effectively identified electrode subsets demonstrating strong task-related signals, indicating potential for adequate BCI control.

Conclusions:

• fMRI serves as a valuable non-invasive method for pre-surgical assessment of BCI candidates.
• Future BCI research may leverage fMRI for streamlined surgical procedures, enhancing cortical targeting and reducing patient burden.