Using games and feedback to improve brain scans in children before surgery
Official title: Behavioral feedback and rewards for improving functional brain mapping in presurgical pediatric patients
Funded at Turing Medical Technologies INC · NIH-11117053 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a fun and interactive way to help kids stay still during brain scans for epilepsy treatment, making the process easier and more accurate so doctors can plan the best care for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Turing Medical Technologies INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,500,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R44NS129521-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117053 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are undergoing evaluation for epilepsy surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing neurosurgical procedures or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the effectiveness of functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) for children undergoing pre-surgical planning for epilepsy treatment. By utilizing a gamified biofeedback approach, the study seeks to reduce motion-related errors during fMRI scans, which can lead to inaccurate results. The innovative software solution will help children engage more effectively during the scanning process, ensuring that critical brain areas are mapped accurately to avoid potential neurodevelopmental deficits. This non-invasive method is designed to be safer and more comfortable for pediatric patients compared to traditional invasive techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate brain mapping for children, improving surgical outcomes and reducing the risk of neurodevelopmental issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive fMRI techniques, but this specific gamified biofeedback approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Turing Medical Technologies INC
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: King, Kevin — Turing Medical Technologies INC
- Study coordinator: King, Kevin
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This study is testing a new technology that helps patients, especially kids and older adults, stay still during brain MRI scans by giving them real-time feedback, which can lead to clearer images and fewer repeat scans.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.