Abstract
This article reviews an improved methodology and technology for crafting a multi-electrode spiral cuff for the selective activation of nerve fibres in particular superficial regions of a peripheral nerve. The analysis, structural and mechanical properties of the spot welds used for the interconnections between the stimulating electrodes and stainless-steel lead wires are presented. The cuff consisted of 33 platinum electrodes embedded within a self-curling 17-mm-long silicone spiral sheet with a nominal internal diameter of 2.5 mm. The weld was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and nanohardness tests, while the interconnection was investigated using destructive load tests. The functionality of the cuff was tested in an isolated porcine vagus nerve. The results of the scanning electron microscopy show good alloying and none of the typical welding defects that occur between the wire and the platinum foil. The results of the destructive load tests show that the breaking loads were between 3.22 and 5 N. The results of the nanohardness testing show that the hardness of the weld was different for the particular sites on the weld sample. Finally, the results of the functional testing show that for different stimulation intensities both the compound action potential deflection and the shape are modulated.
Highlights
This article reviews an improved methodology and technology for crafting a multi-electrode spiral cuff for the selective activation of nerve fibres in particular superficial regions of a peripheral nerve
All applications of chronically implanted neural prostheses require electrodes that are capable of providing a safe and reliable electrical stimulation that is dependent on the surface and bulk properties of the used materials
Advances in vagus-nerve stimulation have increased the need for cuff designs that can selectively modulate the function of the desired internal organ via the selective stimulation of selected populations of nerve fibres
Summary
This article reviews an improved methodology and technology for crafting a multi-electrode spiral cuff for the selective activation of nerve fibres in particular superficial regions of a peripheral nerve. Among a number of factors, the functionality of stimulating electrode systems, implanted onto peripheral nerves in humans, depend on the design, motion, mechanics, material composition and surface properties. Advances in vagus-nerve stimulation have increased the need for cuff designs that can selectively modulate the function of the desired internal organ via the selective stimulation of selected populations of nerve fibres. This selectivity has proved to be difficult to achieve[9,18]. Most cuffs are manufactured using medical-grade silicone materials in combination with platinum foils that are connected to stainless-steel lead wires using different technologies
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
