In this study, the investigators intend to evaluate the use of a commercially available neurostimulator system, NeuroPace RNS System to stimulate the visual cortex. The NeuroPace RNS System has a proven record of safety and reliability was approved by the FDA in November 2013. The RNS System is indicated for use in patients with epilepsy and includes a skull implanted neurostimulator. No modification to the RNS System is required for this study. This study will use this device to better understand the effect of stimulation on the visual parts of the brain. The main purposes of this study are to confirm the desired location to implant a device in the visual cortex, determine the amount of energy needed to elicit vision, and assess the nature of the vision that is produced. This information is important to have early in the process of designing a visual cortical prosthesis that could eventually be used for commercial use.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
5
Neuropace RNS implant ove visual cortex
UCLA Department of Neurosurgery
Los Angeles, California, United States
Stimulation level required to elicit visual phosphene
Quantitative outcome. Direct brain stimulation to reproduce visual phenomena has not been done. There are no predesigned outcome measures. For this outcome measure, we will determine how much stimulation (in amps) is required to induce a perception of vision.
Time frame: 6 months
Characterization of stimulation-induced visions
Descriptive outcome. Subjects will be asked to describe the type of visual perception that is induced by direct brain stimulation.
Time frame: 6 months
Spatial localization of stimulation to produce visual phenomena with direct cortical stimulation.
Anatomic outcome. No predetermined outcome scale exists. We will assess patients and the sites of brain stimulation to determine which areas of the brain produce reliable visual phenomena when stimulated.
Time frame: 6 months
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