In-Human Demonstration of High-Frequency Reversible Electrical Motor Nerve Block Compared to Selective Neurectomy-A...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Selective neurectomy is a surgical treatment for spasticity.
• High-frequency nerve conduction block (HFNB) offers a potential non-invasive alternative.
• This study aimed to validate HFNB's efficacy in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the feasibility of replicating selective neurectomy effects using HFNB.
• To evaluate the reversibility and comparability of HFNB to neurectomy.
• To assess HFNB as a potential treatment for spasticity.

Main Methods:

• In four participants undergoing tibial neurectomy for spasticity, HFNB was applied using a 10 kHz stimulation with an 8-contact electrode.
• Continuous EMG recorded nerve block and proximal stimulation effects.
• Reversibility was assessed by stopping stimulation; neurectomy effects were compared to HFNB.

Main Results:

• HFNB successfully induced a graded partial to complete nerve block in all participants.
• The block was fully reversible upon cessation of stimulation.
• EMG recordings post-neurectomy were comparable to those achieved with HFNB.

Conclusions:

• This study demonstrates the feasibility of a reversible electrical nerve block in humans.
• HFNB shows potential as a method to achieve motor block for spasticity treatment.
• This represents a significant step towards clinical application of HFNB for spasticity.