Publication year: 2012
Source:World Neurosurgery
Brian Lee, Charles Y. Liu, Michael L.J. Apuzzo
Objective With each significant development in the field of neurosurgery, our dependence upon computers, small and large, has continuously increased. From something as mundane as bipolar cautery to sophisticated intraoperative navigation with real-time MRI-assisted surgical guidance, both technologies, however simple or complex, require computational processing power to function. The next frontier for neurosurgery involves developing a greater understanding of the brain and furthering our capabilities as surgeons to directly affect brain circuitry and function. Methods This has come in the form of implantable devices which can electronically and nondestructively influence the cortex and nuclei with the purpose of restoring neuronal function and improving quality of life. Results We are now transitioning from devices that are turned on and left alone, such as vagus nerve stimulators (VNS) and deep brain stimulators (DBS), to "smart" devices that can listen and react to the body as the situation may dictate. Conclusion The development of quantum computers and their potential to be thousands, if not millions of times faster than current "classical" computers, will significantly affect the neurosciences, especially the field of neurorehabilitation and neuromodulation. Quantum computers may advance our understanding of the neural code, and in turn, better develop and program implantable neural devices. When quantum computers reach the point where we can actually implant such devices in patients, the possibilities of what can be done to interface and restore neural function will be limitless.
Júlio Leonardo B. Pereira
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