02631nas a2200313 4500008004100000022001400041245013200055210006900187260001600256520153300272100002401805700002201829700002001851700002001871700002201891700001701913700002301930700002201953700001801975700002301993700001902016700001902035700002402054700002002078700002302098700002102121710006202142856011302204 2024 eng d a1556-096100aBrain-Computer Interfaces for Communication in Patients with Disorders of Consciousness: A Gap Analysis and Scientific Roadmap.0 aBrainComputer Interfaces for Communication in Patients with Diso c2024 Jan 293 a

BACKGROUND: We developed a gap analysis that examines the role of brain-computer interfaces (BCI) in patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC), focusing on their assessment, establishment of communication, and engagement with their environment.

METHODS: The Curing Coma Campaign convened a Coma Science work group that included 16 clinicians and neuroscientists with expertise in DoC. The work group met online biweekly and performed a gap analysis of the primary question.

RESULTS: We outline a roadmap for assessing BCI readiness in patients with DoC and for advancing the use of BCI devices in patients with DoC. Additionally, we discuss preliminary studies that inform development of BCI solutions for communication and assessment of readiness for use of BCIs in DoC study participants. Special emphasis is placed on the challenges posed by the complex pathophysiologies caused by heterogeneous brain injuries and their impact on neuronal signaling. The differences between one-way and two-way communication are specifically considered. Possible implanted and noninvasive BCI solutions for acute and chronic DoC in adult and pediatric populations are also addressed.

CONCLUSIONS: We identify clinical and technical gaps hindering the use of BCI in patients with DoC in each of these contexts and provide a roadmap for research aimed at improving communication for adults and children with DoC, spanning the clinical spectrum from intensive care unit to chronic care.

1 aSchiff, Nicholas, D1 aDiringer, Michael1 aDiserens, Karin1 aEdlow, Brian, L1 aGosseries, Olivia1 aHill, Jeremy1 aHochberg, Leigh, R1 aIsmail, Fatima, Y1 aMeyer, Ivo, A1 aMikell, Charles, B1 aMofakham, Sima1 aMolteni, Erika1 aPolizzotto, Leonard1 aShah, Sudhin, A1 aStevens, Robert, D1 aThengone, Daniel1 aand the Curing Coma Campaign and its Contributing Members uhttps://www.neurotechcenter.org/publications/2024/brain-computer-interfaces-communication-patients-disorders