Visual Attention for Brain-Computer Interface: Towards Using 7T FMRI to Localize Electrode Implant Sites

Patrik Andersson¹, Jeroen Siero², Josien Pluim¹, Max Viergever¹, Nick Ramsey³

Brain-Computer interface technology is moving towards implantable systems with electrodes placed directly on the cortex. For correct placement, prior knowledge is required about the exact location of a targeted brainfunction. In this study we test whether subjects can control a cursor by directing visual attention to the left or the right. Brain regions activated by attention in a localizer task are identified with a 7T MRI system. 8 subjects then received feedback about their attention-related brain activity and performance was measured. Results suggest that 7T fMRI can be used to identify regions for invasive BCI.