Perturbational Complexity Index Helps Measure Consciousness in Patients with Brain Injuries

A new study suggests that various brain injuries can now be measured by studying a person's level of consciousness.

According to a research team from the University of Milan in Italy, they created a numerical index that actually helps assist in this measuring process. For the study, researchers examined 52 participants--some of which were healthy and others who had suffered brain-injuries. A device known as trans-cranial magnetic stimulation was created by Nexstim in order to measure the state of consciousness, known as the Perturbational Complexity Index (PCI.) This device is capable of collection information regarding electrical responses that produce the brain by stimulation.

The amount of brain activity found in the brain helped researchers determine if it was conscious during the procedure. The device also allowed researchers to monitor the improvement of those who had been injured and in intensive care, experiencing very low levels of consciousness.

Study results showed that those who suffered from brain-injuries still had active levels of consciousness despite their inability to respond to commands at the time.

"It will be very important to perform measurements right in the ICU in the acute phase to have an objective marker of what's happening and to track improvements occurring spontaneously or brought about by treatment," study author Marcello Massimini said in a phone interview reported by Bloomberg, via Bloomberg.com. "If you have a number, you can start working towards an evidence-based treatment."

Study authors note that this could help provide better treatments for those who have suffered brain-injuries by providing a more in-depth look at what's going on inside the mind after damage occurs. Yet they also point out that further studies need to be conducted in order to determine the possibilities of these treatments.

More information regarding the study can be found in the Science Translational Medicine.