Fully Implantable Wireless Device for Continual and Dynamic Neural Pressure Monitoring: An Animal Model of Compression Neuropathy
Ronit Malka, SB; Christopher J. Knox, BSc; Pavel Gorelik, MEng; Ofer Mazor, PhD; Tessa A. Hadlock, MD; Nate Jowett, MD
Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
Introduction: Induction and quantification of compression neuropathy is challenging due to dynamic responses in vivo. Described herein is a novel implantable device for precision control and continual measurement of applied pressure on a peripheral nerve in an animal model.
Materials and Methods: The device consists of (1) an inflatable cuff with attached subcutaneous injection port, and (2) a miniaturized (1" x 1") printed circuit board integrating a power supply, a pressure and temperature sensor, and a microprocessor with radiofrequency telemetry for real-time reading and transmitting of pressure and temperature data to a remote receiver. All components are coated in medical-grade silicone and tolerate sterilization by steam autoclave, allowing for complete implantation of the device for long-term control and quantification of neural compression over time.
Results: First application results consisting of functional outcomes from long-term compression and subsequent decompression of facial nerve branches to model Bell's palsy will be presented.
Conclusion: A method to achieve precise induction, real-time monitoring, and long-term quantification of compression neuropathy in an animal model has been developed.
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