Across multiple experimental sessions, the researchers have uncovered signs of consciousness that were previously undetected in unresponsive patients.
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Using Brain Technology, Awareness is Detected in Unresponsive Patients
Across multiple experimental sessions, the researchers have uncovered signs of consciousness that were previously undetected in unresponsive patients.
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A new approach for identifying signs of hidden awareness in people who cannot speak or move after severe brain injury has been demonstrated by researchers at the University of Bath.
The system detects patterns of brain activity through a wearable headset using an advanced application of brain – computer interface( BCI) technology.
Across multiple experimental sessions, the researchers have uncovered signs of consciousness that were previously undetected in unresponsive patients.
This represents a potential advance in diagnostic methods and rehabilitation planning for patients. It also offers promising possibilities for future technologies that may help patients communicate without the use of voice or movement.
Published in Communications Medicine, the study was carried out in patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness( PDoC) and locked-in syndrome( LIS) – conditions in which awareness may be preserved but cannot be outwardly expressed.
By recording brainwaves in these patients, this BCI technology detects when a person imagines a hand or arm movement, even when no physical movement is possible. Detection accuracy can improve if neurofeedback is provided over multiple sessions.