Percutaneous connections in man

Neuroprostheses research provides on application of percutaneous access. We have investigated a number of clinical situations requiring chronic percutaneous transmission of either fluid or electricity in man to explore other uses. Selection criteria for new models include the following considerations: 1) it should allow use of a skull mounted pedestal; 2) it should offer the potential of benefit to the patient with minimal extra risks; 3) it should be a common enough problem to provide sufficient clinical material; and 4) it should not require major new developments of technology. Other potential uses include the artifical pancreas, artificial heart, and hyperalimentation. With some modification, it might be possible to provide access to devices located in the chest via the jugular vein. Similarly, other uses for this percutaneous device warrant investigation. Our twenty man-years of experience with the device indicates that it provides successful chronic access when used with appropriate skill.