A new brain implant, created at the Feinstein Medical Research Institute in New York, may one day provide the ability to read human thoughts and vocalize them for those who are unable to speak independently.
According to reports from STAT News, a computer-brain interface (CMI) system connects to the cerebral cortex - multiple electrodes read neuro-impulses arising in the regions of the brain responsible for perception and generation of speech, and then these impulses are decoded by a laboratory computer.
First steps
The current generation of KMI is not yet able to perfectly convert brain neuro-impulses into speech. People using the new system are unable to form complex flowery expressions. But, according to STAT News, doctors believe they are able to help paralyzed people or those who have lost speech for some other reason, inform their caregivers that they are hungry, thirsty, pain or voice some other, relatively simple, but important things for them.
It is also possible that this technology will help doctors, if necessary, determine the patient's condition, including whether he has come out of a coma and is able to react or is still unconscious.
However, STAT News is quick to point out that brain-computer interfaces like this one, which are being tested on volunteers undergoing surgery for severe epilepsy, will not be available outside scientific laboratories soon.
As bitter as it is to admit it, the history of brain implants is rife with cases of brain damage or rejection by the nervous system. And since these devices are not eternal, over time, the need for brain surgery will repeatedly arise. But one day, if the problem of brain compatibility is solved, brain-computer interfaces could make the life of suffering people much easier.
Promotional video:
Sergey "Avarron" Afanasiev
