Using a brain-computer interface to help people with tetraplegia communicate
Intuitive, Complete Neural Control of Tablet Computers for Communication
This study is testing a new brain-computer interface to help people with tetraplegia communicate more easily using a tablet.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 2 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06511934 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to enhance communication for individuals with tetraplegia by developing an intracortical brain-computer interface (iBCI) that allows intuitive control of communication applications on tablet computers. Participants with conditions such as brainstem stroke or ALS will be equipped with the BrainGate Neural Interface System to interpret brain signals related to movement. The study focuses on translating these signals into actionable commands for communication, thereby improving the quality of life for those affected by severe motor impairments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with complete or incomplete tetraplegia due to spinal cord injury, brainstem stroke, or motor neuron disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with severe visual impairments or those on chronic immunosuppressive therapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could significantly improve communication abilities for patients with severe paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies involving brain-computer interfaces have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of spinal cord injury, brainstem stroke, muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or other motor neuron disorders * Complete or incomplete tetraplegia (quadriplegia) * Must live within a three-hour drive of the Study site * Prior enrollment in BrainGate2 clinical trial (NCT00912041) Exclusion Criteria: * Visual impairment such that extended viewing of a computer monitor would be difficult even with ordinary corrective lenses * Chronic oral or intravenous steroids or immunosuppressive therapy * Other serious disease or disorder that could seriously affect ability to participate in the study (There are additional exclusion criteria)
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Masssachusetts General Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Leigh R Hochberg, MD, Ph.D. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Leigh R Hochberg, MD, Ph.D
- Email: lhochberg@mgh.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-724-9247
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.