The effect of brain-computer interface training on cognitive function in stroke patients: a systematic review and...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Stroke survivors often experience significant cognitive impairments affecting daily life.
• Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) offer a novel approach to neurorehabilitation by leveraging neural activity for therapeutic benefit.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of BCI-based interventions for cognitive and functional recovery in stroke survivors.
• To identify moderators, such as feedback modes and BCI paradigms, influencing BCI training outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted across multiple databases.
• Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were pooled to synthesize effect sizes, with subgroup analyses exploring heterogeneity.

Main Results:

• BCI training significantly improved global cognitive function (SMD = 0.62), attention, and executive function, as well as activities of daily living.
• No significant improvements were noted in memory function.
• Subgroup analyses indicated superior outcomes with active BCI paradigms and multimodal feedback in the subacute phase of stroke.

Conclusions:

• BCI training is a promising intervention for enhancing cognitive recovery post-stroke.
• Early intervention and the use of multimodal feedback are crucial for optimizing therapeutic effects.