Investigation on the Cortical Communication (CortiCom) System

This study evaluates the CortiCom brain-computer interface system in people with severe paralysis. A brain-computer interface (BCI) works by recording electrical signals directly from the brain's motor cortex — the area that controls movement — and translating those signals into commands for a computer, communication device, or robotic arm. For people with conditions like ALS, spinal cord injury, or locked-in syndrome who have lost virtually all motor function, BCIs could restore the ability to communicate or interact with the environment. The CortiCom system involves surgically implanting small electrode arrays on the surface of the brain to record neural signals. Participants are trained to use their thoughts to control the interface over months of sessions. You may be eligible if: - You are between 22 and 70 years old - You have tetraplegia (quadriplegia), brainstem stroke, ALS, or locked-in syndrome - Your condition has been stable for at least one year - You are able to give informed consent and communicate reliably (e.g., via eye movement) - You are able to travel to the study site up to three days per week You may NOT be eligible if: - You have implanted devices incompatible with MRI (pacemakers, deep brain stimulators, cochlear implants) - You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant - You have active cancer or a serious infection - You have had a prior cranioplasty - You have a history of substance or alcohol dependence in the past 2 years - You have significant cognitive impairment or psychiatric conditions Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.