Neural Implants Without Electronics: A Proof-of-Concept Study on a Human Skin Model

Abstract

Objective: Chronic neural implants require energy and signal supply. The objective of this work was to evaluate a multichannel transcutaneous coupling approach in an ex vivo split-concept study, which minimizes the invasiveness of such an implant by externalizing the processing electronics. Methods: Herein, the experimental work focused on the transcutaneous energy and signal transmission. The performance was discussed with widely evaluated concepts of neural interfaces in the literature. Results: The performance of the transcutaneous coupling approach increased with higher channel count and higher electrode pitches. Electrical crosstalk among channels was present, but acceptable for the stimulation of peripheral nerves. Conclusions: Transcutaneous coupling with extracorporeal transmitting arrays and subcutaneous counterparts provide a promising alternative to the inductive concept particularly when a fully integration of the system in a prosthetic shaft is intended. The relocation of the electronics can potentially prevent pressure sores, improve accessibility for maintenance and increase lifetime of the implant. INDEX TERMS Capacitive coupling, electrode, neural implant, skin, telemetry. IMPACT STATEMENT Transcutaneous coupling of energy and signals to an implanted multichannel array can potentially power peripheral nerve electrodes without the need of active implanted components.

Multifaceted understanding of human nerve implants to design optimized electrodes for bioelectronics

“…Current major issues of using intraneural interfaces are: i) Complicated and long surgical implantation procedure of multiple electrodes per nerve; ii) Significant FBR to the electrodes implanted; iii) Over-time changes of the effective stimulation parameters requiring re-calibration. There are possible solutions thanks to the innovative neurotechnological, biological and AI developments: i) Production of electrodes faster-to-implant maintaining the same high selectivity embedded in a system without [63] (A) or with (B) implantable electronics; ii) Use of collagen coating containing antifibrotic drugs enabled a reduced growth of fibrotic tissue around the electrode. Polyimide thin film devices can be coated with collagen layers by dipping.…”