Development of an implantable networked neuroprosthesis

Abstract

Neuroprosthetic devices are powerful tools providing functional enhancement for individuals with central nervous system disorders, such as spinal cord injury and stroke. Life sustaining and enhancing independent functions such as breathing, standing, walking, grasping, reaching, micturition, and defecation have all been clinically demonstrated using neuroprostheses. Existing implanted neuroprosthetic systems utilize considerable external powering and signal processing, and each system must be customized to the specific application for which it is intended, severely limiting progress in the field and delaying the introduction of new technology to the end user. The networked neuroprosthetic system (NNPS) is based on a network of small implanted modules, distributed throughout the body, and linked to a centralized power source. The modules are connected through a network cable that distributes power to each module from a central rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Each module contains processing capabilities, communicates with other modules via the network cable, and is reprogrammable over the network using a central wireless transcutaneous link. The NNPS is extremely flexible and can be scaled to meet the technical needs of a broad range of neuroprosthetic applications through the selection of the appropriate modules providing the means for broader clinical application of neuroprostheses