S9A-04 SESSION 9A: CRANIOPLASTY THE WORLD’S FIRST, BATTERY-POWERED, LOW-PROFILE INTER-CRANIAL DEVICE (LID) PROTOTYPE CAPABLE OF REMOTE MAPPING, RECORDING, AND TELEMETRY (MRT)

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with medicine-resistant epilepsy undergo invasive brain mapping and craniotomy to identify a surgical focus compatible with surgery. This requires placement of cortical/depth electrodes and then a direct trans-scalp connection to an external computer being monitored during an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) admission, which costs up to $238,000 per stay. Thus, given the recent advances in wireless technology and customized cranial implants, our team sought to create, design, and build the world’s first low-profile intercranial device (LID) capable of providing all necessary data via remote brain mapping, recording, and telemetry (MRT). Methods: The housing platform for the functional prototype was constructed using patent-pending technology and a clear-colored housing implant made of poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA). The wireless connection consists of Bluetooth 5.0 telemetry and a validated, data management system. There is an external wireless charger to allow the patient to charge it daily using a headphone-like apparatus. It contains an external data storage system for retrieval of critical brain data via electroencephalography (ECOG). There is a battery life indicator located on the mobile device app, which is installed on a cellular phone solely dedicated to this project. Data rate of wireless transfer is at 1 megabyte per second. Results: Based on our experience with the first-in-human, neuromodulation-encapsulated, cranial implant case (1), our team was again successful in creating the world’s first functional prototype named the LID MRT. Upon completion, it required the size dimensions most consistent with a standard hemi-craniectomy and fully functions with respect to its wireless charging and brain signal recording (confirmed via laboratory simulation). Also, there is a visible LED light for which changes color when activated and functioning properly. Conclusion: Our team has successfully created, designed, and built the world’s first functional prototype now referred to as the LID MRT. This game-changing device is self-contained within a clear-colored, cranial implant and has the potential to shift the entire paradigm surrounding implantable neurotechnologies. Furthermore, its biocompatible design will allow for safe, long-term placement thereby providing a human brain activity database of unprecedented size.