Scoping Review on Brain-Computer Interface-Controlled Electrical Stimulation Interventions for Upper Limb...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Traditional physical and occupational therapy are standard for arm and hand function recovery.
• Technology-enhanced rehabilitation, particularly brain-computer interface (BCI) with electrical stimulation (ES), is an emerging area of research.
• BCI-ES interventions aim to improve upper limb motor function through novel technological approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence on brain-computer interface (BCI) combined with electrical stimulation (ES) for upper limb movement rehabilitation.
• To summarize findings regarding study populations, BCI-ES intervention details, and the systems employed.
• To identify gaps and areas for future research in BCI-ES for rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across seven databases.
• Two independent reviewers identified and evaluated 23 eligible studies.
• Data were extracted on study participants, BCI-ES interventions, and system development.

Main Results:

• The review included studies involving individuals with stroke and spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Electroencephalography (EEG) was universally used for BCI signal acquisition, with functional electrical stimulation (FES) being the most common ES modality.
• The majority of studies (20 out of 23) focused on the stroke population, with only 3 studies involving SCI participants.

Conclusions:

• The current evidence base for BCI-ES interventions in upper limb rehabilitation is predominantly focused on stroke survivors.
• There is a significant gap in research concerning the application of BCI-ES for individuals with spinal cord injury.
• Future research should aim to standardize BCI-ES devices and rehabilitation protocols, and consider therapist involvement for clinical translation.