Brain-computer communication: unlocking the locked in.

TitleBrain-computer communication: unlocking the locked in.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2001
AuthorsKübler, A, Kotchoubey, B, Kaiser, J, Wolpaw, J, Birbaumer, N
JournalPsychological bulletin
Volume127
Pagination358–375
Date Published05/2001
ISSN0033-2909
KeywordsUser-Computer Interface
Abstract

With the increasing efficiency of life-support systems and better intensive care, more patients survive severe injuries of the brain and spinal cord. Many of these patients experience locked-in syndrome: The active mind is locked in a paralyzed body. Consequently, communication is extremely restricted or impossible. A muscle-independent communication channel overcomes this problem and is realized through a brain-computer interface, a direct connection between brain and computer. The number of technically elaborated brain-computer interfaces is in contrast with the number of systems used in the daily life of locked-in patients. It is hypothesized that a profound knowledge and consideration of psychological principles are necessary to make brain-computer interfaces feasible for locked-in patients.

URLhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11393301
DOI10.1037/0033-2909.127.3.358
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