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Technology and long-term application of an epineural electrode
ASAIO Transactions
|July 1, 1989
Summary
New epineural electrodes (ENE) enable controlled muscle contractions and reduce fatigue in functional electrostimulation. These small, stable electrodes show minimal complications in long-term clinical use for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroprosthetics
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Functional electrostimulation (FES) aims to restore function through electrical stimulation.
- Muscle fatigue and electrode stability are key challenges in FES applications.
- Epineural electrodes (ENE) offer a potential solution for targeted nerve stimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an epineural electrode (ENE) for controllable muscle contraction and reduced fatigue.
- To assess the long-term stability and biocompatibility of ENEs in preclinical and clinical settings.
- To investigate the efficacy of ENEs in patients with spinal cord injuries.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies for material and diameter selection of annular electrodes.
- Long-term stability testing of ENEs in sheep and rat models with varying current intensities.
- Clinical implantation of ENEs in paraplegic and quadriplegic patients for lower extremity and diaphragm stimulation.
Main Results:
- ENE demonstrated tolerance to anodic and cathodic impulses up to 1 msec and 8 mA peak current.
- Preclinical studies confirmed electrode stability under various current intensities.
- Clinical application over 37 patient years showed a low complication rate, with no electrode corrosion or significant nerve fiber loss.
Conclusions:
- The developed epineural electrode (ENE) is stable and suitable for functional electrostimulation.
- Small electrode dimensions (<1 mm2) contribute to a low rate of clinical complications.
- ENEs show promise for improving FES applications in patients with paralysis.