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Implantation and Control of Wireless, Battery-free Systems for Peripheral Nerve Interfacing
Published on: October 20, 2021
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Wireless microelectrode arrays for selective and chronically stable peripheral nerve stimulation for hindlimb
Rebecca A Frederick1, Philip R Troyk2, Stuart F Cogan1
1Bioengineering Department, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, United States of America.
Journal of Neural Engineering
|September 30, 2021
Summary
This study developed a stable wireless neural interface using microelectrodes for selective nerve stimulation. The device demonstrated consistent motor control in rats over 9.5 months, showing potential for treating neurological disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Engineering
Background:
- Developing stable neural interfaces is crucial for treating neurological and neuromuscular disorders.
- Wireless communication and intrafascicular microelectrodes offer potential for highly selective neural tissue stimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and assess a stable wireless neural interface using intrafascicular microelectrodes for selective peripheral nerve stimulation.
- To evaluate the long-term stability and efficacy of the neural interface in a rodent model.
Main Methods:
- A wireless floating microelectrode array was implanted into the sciatic nerve of six rats.
- Stimulation thresholds, evoked movements, sensory responses, and walking task performance were monitored over 38 weeks.
- Motor recruitment patterns were analyzed for stability throughout the study.
Main Results:
- The microelectrode array implantation did not cause motor or sensory deficits.
- Low stimulation currents (as low as 4.1 µA) evoked hindlimb movement, with most thresholds below 20 µA.
- Predictable motor recruitment and stable motor patterns were achieved and maintained over the 9.5-month study period.
Conclusions:
- Wireless, low-profile neural interfaces can achieve stable motor recruitment and fine motor control in peripheral nerves.
- This technology shows promise for chronic implantation and selective neural stimulation in various applications for neurological disorders.
