The aim of the study is to assess the cortical reorganisation after arm amputation using functional connectivity between and within the left and right motor hand areas using resting-state fMRI, and structural connectity using diffusion tensor…
ID
Source
Brief title
Condition
- Other condition
Synonym
Health condition
Fundamenteel neurowetenschappelijk
Research involving
Sponsors and support
Intervention
Outcome measures
Primary outcome
Functional connectivity (both within and between the left and right motor hand
area in amputees and controls) obtained by resting-state fMRI will serve as a
measure for cortical reorganisation. The results will be compared between the
amputation and control groups.
Secondary outcome
Not applicable.
Background summary
After arm amputation, the brain is able to reorganise, such that the former
hand area is *taken over* by neighbouring brain regions. However, there is also
evidence that the former hand area is still active while performing attempted
movements, and in a previous study we showed that it is possible to decode
(that is, classify) the activity patterns of six different hand gestures made
with the missing hand. However, as classification using machine learning
techniques act as a black box, we would like to get insight in the processes of
cortical reorganisation after arm amputation.
Study objective
The aim of the study is to assess the cortical reorganisation after arm
amputation using functional connectivity between and within the left and right
motor hand areas using resting-state fMRI, and structural connectity using
diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).
Study design
This study is an observational study using functional MRI in a group of
volunteers, consisting of subjects with and without arm amputation. We will
record so-called resting-state fMRI to quantify the functional connectivity
within and between the left and right motor hand area, and diffusion tensor
imaging (DTI) to assess structural connectivity of the hand area with its
surroundings. The results will be compared between the amputation and control
groups.
Study burden and risks
There are no known risks associated with MRI acquisition. The technique does
not require administration of any contrast agent or ionizing radiation. The
Utrecht group has ample experience with MRI scanning (300 sessions per year on
the 7 tesla MRI scanner). The MRI procedure is painless. Slight discomfort may
occur due to peripheral nerve stimulation during scanning, or due to lying
still with the head and part of the body confined in a tunnel-like device.
The results of this study are important for the brain-computer interface
research in the UMC Utrecht. Individual subjects in this study are not expected
to have any benefits from the outcome of this study.
Universiteitsweg 100
Utrecht 3584 CG
NL
Universiteitsweg 100
Utrecht 3584 CG
NL
Listed location countries
Age
Inclusion criteria
Age 18+
Right-handed
(according to Edinburg Handedness Inventory; amputees have to fill in the situation before amputation)
For experimental group: amputated right arm (above elbow), longer than 1 year before the study
Exclusion criteria
Damage to the brain
Noncompliance with MRI safety check list (claustrophobia, metal in the body, etc.)
Design
Recruitment
Followed up by the following (possibly more current) registration
No registrations found.
Other (possibly less up-to-date) registrations in this register
No registrations found.
In other registers
| Register | ID |
|---|---|
| CCMO | NL55291.041.15 |