Brain–Computer Interfaces with Intracortical Implants for Motor and Communication Functions Compensation: Review of Recent Developments

Abstract

Brain-computer interfaces allow the exchange of data between the brain and an external device, bypassing the muscular system. Clinical studies of invasive brain-computer interface technologies have been conducted for over 20 years. During this time, there has been a continuous improvement of approaches to neuronal signal processing in order to improve the quality of control of external devices. Currently, brain-computer interfaces with intracortical implants allow completely paralyzed patients to control robotic limbs for self-service, use a computer or a tablet, type text, and reproduce speech at an optimal speed. Studies of invasive brain-computer interfaces regularly provide new fundamental data on functioning of the central nervous system. In recent years, breakthrough discoveries and achievements have been annually made in this sphere.This review analyzes the results of clinical experiments of brain-computer interfaces with intracortical implants, provides information on the stages of this technology development, its main discoveries and achievements.