Application of fMRI and Simultaneous fMRI-EEG Neurofeedback in Post-Stroke Motor Rehabilitation

This article discusses the contribution of fMRI- and fMRI-EEG-neurofeedback into recovery of motor function in two subacute stroke patients during the early post-stroke period. Premotor and supplementary motor zones of the cortex were chosen as the targets of voluntary control. Patient 1 received 6 sessions of motor imagery-based fMRI neurofeedback of secondary motor areas activity and Patient 2 received a similar course with the addition of mu- and beta-EEG activity suppression. Both reduced the motor deficit severity, improved on the quality of life, and increased the C3/C4 coherence to other central leads within EEG mu-band. Patient 1 reliably increased the fMRI signal in target areas and improved on the strength and speed of hand movements. Patient 2 (fMRI-EEG) mastered the EEG activity regulation to a greater degree. The authors conclude that pure fMRI neurofeedback and bi-modal fMRI-EEG neurofeedback produce different clinical effects in motor rehabilitation, which confirms the prospect of the closed-loop stroke treatment.