A leadless power transfer and wireless telemetry solutions for an endovascular electrocorticography

Objective. Endovascular brain-computer interfaces (eBCIs) offer a minimally invasive way to connect the brain to external devices, merging neuroscience, engineering, and medical technology. Currently, solutions for endovascular electrocorticography (ECoG) include a stent in the brain with sensing electrodes, a chest implant to accommodate electronic components to provide power and data telemetry, and a long (tens of centimeters) cable travel through vessels with a set of wires in between. Removing this long cable is the key to the clinical viability of eBCIS as it carries risks and limitations, especially for patients with fragile vasculature.Approach. This work introduces a wireless and leadless telemetry and power transfer solution for ECoG. The proposed solution includes an optical telemetry module and a focused ultrasound (FUS) power transfer system. The proposed system can be miniaturised to fit in an endovascular stent, removing the need for long, intrusive cables.Main results. The optical telemetry achieves data transmission speeds of over 2 Mbit/s, capable of supporting 41 ECoG channels at a 2 kHz sampling rate with 24-bit resolution. The FUS power transfer system delivers up to 10 mW of power to the implant through the scalp(6 mm), skull(10 mm), and subdural space(5 mm), adhering to safety limits. Testing on bovine tissue (10 mm thick bone, 7 mm thick skin) confirmed the system's efficacy.Significance. This leadless and wireless solution eliminates the need for long cables and auxiliary implants, potentially reducing complications and enhancing the clinical applicability of eBCIs. The proposed system represents a step forward in enabling safer and more effective ECoG for a broader range of patients.