Nerve cuff electrode using embedded magnets and its application to hypoglossal nerve stimulation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Neural Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Conventional nerve cuff electrodes often require complex surgical techniques for secure implantation.
• Existing methods for attaching cuff electrodes can be invasive and may lead to nerve damage or procedural complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel magnet-embedded nerve cuff electrode (MENCE) that utilizes magnetic force for secure and non-invasive nerve attachment.
• To assess the feasibility of the MENCE for nerve stimulation and recording applications through in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) based nerve cuff electrode with fully embedded magnets.
• Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry to characterize electrode properties (impedance, charge storage capacity).
• In vivo implantation of the MENCE onto the rabbit hypoglossal nerve (HN) for functional assessment via C-arm fluoroscopy during pulsed current stimulation.

Main Results:

• The MENCE demonstrated stable electrochemical properties with measured impedance and charge storage capacity suitable for neural interfacing.
• Successful implantation and stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve (HN) were achieved using the MENCE, evidenced by genioglossus muscle contraction.
• The magnetic closure mechanism allowed for precise, sutureless installation and easy, repeatable removal of the electrode.

Conclusions:

• The magnet-embedded nerve cuff electrode (MENCE) presents a promising, minimally invasive alternative to traditional nerve cuff electrodes.
• The magnetic attachment system simplifies the implantation and removal process, enhancing usability and reducing potential nerve trauma.
• The MENCE shows significant potential as a versatile tool in neural engineering for precise nerve interfacing and stimulation.