Overview
The purpose of this study is to obtain preliminary device safety information and demonstrate proof of principle (feasibility) of the ability of people with tetraplegia to control a computer cursor and other assistive devices with their thoughts.
Description
The goal of the BrainGate2 research and development project is to identify the core methods and features for a medical device that could allow people with paralysis, including severe speech impairment, to recover a host of abilities that normally rely on the hands or on speech.
Eligibility
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
- (There are additional inclusion criteria)
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)