Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To assess the reliability and usefulness of an EEG-based
brain-computer interface (BCI) for patients with advanced amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis (ALS) who used it independently at home for up to 18 months.
METHODS:
Of 42 patients consented, 39 (93%) met the study criteria,
and 37 (88%) were assessed for use of the Wadsworth BCI. Nine (21%) could not
use the BCI. Of the other 28, 27 (men, age 28-79 years) (64%) had the BCI
placed in their homes, and they and their caregivers were trained to use it.
Use data were collected by Internet. Periodic visits evaluated BCI benefit and
burden and quality of life.
RESULTS:
Over subsequent months, 12 (29% of the original 42) left the
study because of death or rapid disease progression and 6 (14%) left because of
decreased interest. Fourteen (33%) completed training and used the BCI
independently, mainly for communication. Technical problems were rare. Patient
and caregiver ratings indicated that BCI benefit exceeded burden. Quality of
life remained stable. Of those not lost to the disease, half completed the
study; all but 1 patient kept the BCI for further use.
CONCLUSION:
The Wadsworth BCI home system can function reliably and
usefully when operated by patients in their homes. BCIs that support
communication are at present most suitable for people who are severely disabled
but are otherwise in stable health. Improvements in BCI convenience and
performance, including some now underway, should increase the number of people
who find them useful and the extent to which they are used.
See: https://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/1209611185/brain-power/
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