Brain-Computer Interfaces for Motor Function in Paediatric Neurological Conditions: A Scoping Review Protocol

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) are emerging neurotechnologies with potential applications in motor rehabilitation and assistive motor control for individuals with neurological impairment. Although BCI research has expanded substantially in adult populations, the paediatric evidence base remains limited and heterogeneous, despite important differences in neurodevelopment, neuroplasticity, and ethical considerations. A clear mapping of existing paediatric BCI research is therefore needed. This project is a scoping review aiming to map the extent, nature, and characteristics of BCI applications in paediatric populations with congenital, perinatal, or early-acquired neurological conditions associated with motor impairment. Both invasive and non-invasive BCI systems used for motor rehabilitation, assistive control, or feasibility and safety assessment will be included. Studies focused solely on neuropsychiatric conditions or non-motor BCI applications will be excluded. The review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and reported following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Systematic searches will be performed across multiple bibliographic databases. Data will be extracted using a structured framework and synthesised descriptively and narratively, with studies grouped by neurological condition, BCI modality, and application domain. No formal critical appraisal or meta-analysis will be undertaken. The findings will provide an overview of current paediatric BCI research, identify evidence gaps, and inform future research directions and translational efforts in this field.