Researchers in Portland, Oregon are testing a new device for patients with balance problems caused by damage to the vestibular system. It's called the BrainPort(tm).

It consists of a small, square, gold grid placed on the tongue. The grid contains an array of 144 electrodes. The electrodes are wired to special equipment mounted on the head that provides information about alignment of the head in respect to gravity (like a carpenter's level).

The head unit converts the position information into an electrical signal that stimulates certain electrodes, sending electrical pulses to the tongue. The process stimulates the electrodes in the direction of movement. The wearer learns to maintain balance by keeping the electrical pulses in the center of the tongue.

Researchers say the BrainPort system acts as a substitute for a damaged vestibular system, providing the same type of information - but in a different way.

Some users show balance improvement after only one session with the device. Others may take several days or longer to see an improvement. The effects of the stimulation can last beyond the treatment, but the length of improvement varies.

Initially, BrainPort is being targeted for patients with bilateral (affecting both sides of the head) vestibular dysfunction. Clinical trials are expected to end by December 2005 and the company will submit the data for FDA review and marketing approval. Approval for broader applications of the device is expected in 2007.

SOURCES
Owen Black, M.D. Neurotologist and Senior Scientist, Legacy Clinical Research and Technology Center, Legacy Health System, Portland, OR 97227, interview, March 9, 2005. (Media Contact: Media Contact: Maggie Huffman, (503) 415-5710.)

AUDIENCE INQUIRY
For information about the BrainPort(tm): http://www.wicab.com

For information about balance problems:
American Speech, Language and Hearing Association, http://www.asha.org
National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, http://www.nidcd.nih.gov