Improving hand movement recovery after spinal cord injury using brain-computer interface training
DiSCIoser: Unlocking Recovery Potential of Arm Sensorimotor Functions After Spinal Cord Injury by Promoting Activity-dependent Brain Plasticity and Modeling the Causal Relationship Between Brain Plasticity and Recovery of Function
NA · I.R.C.C.S. Fondazione Santa Lucia · NCT05637775
This study tests if brain-computer interface training can help people with recent spinal cord injuries improve their hand movement better than regular motor imagery training.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | I.R.C.C.S. Fondazione Santa Lucia (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Rome) |
| Trial ID | NCT05637775 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to validate the effectiveness of a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) intervention designed to enhance hand motor recovery in patients with subacute cervical spinal cord injuries. Participants will undergo comprehensive assessments before and after engaging in BCI training that utilizes motor imagery techniques. The study compares the BCI intervention with an active motor imagery training without BCI support to determine its efficacy in promoting cortical sensorimotor plasticity and improving arm functions. The intervention is based on previous research validated for stroke patients and adapted for spinal cord injury rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with subacute cervical spinal cord injuries occurring 30 to 90 days prior, classified as AIS A-D with an upper extremity motor score below 40.
Not a fit: Patients with other conditions affecting upper limb function or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve hand motor functions and overall quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using BCI technology for rehabilitation in stroke patients, suggesting potential success for this novel application in spinal cord injury.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * subacute cervical SCI (30-90 days from event) * classification according to ISNCSCI AIS A-D, lesion level C1-T1 * Upper Extremity Motor Score (UEMS) \< 40 Exclusion Criteria: * other conditions (present or previous) potentially affecting sensorimotor upper limb function * inability to give informed consent and understand the requirements for the training
Where this trial is running
Rome
- Neurorehabilitation Units- Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS — Rome, Italy (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Donatella Mattia, MD, PhD — Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS
- Study coordinator: Donatella Mattia, MD, PhD
- Email: d.mattia@hsantalucia.it
- Phone: +390651501167
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Spinal Cord Injuries, Motor Disorders, spinal cord injury, brain computer interface, motor imagery, motor rehabilitation, neurorehabilitation, brain plasticity