Shape Memory Polymer-Based Insertable Electrode Array Towards Minimally Invasive Subdural Implantation

: Kravtcova Anastasiia, Toncheva Antoniya, Rantataro Samuel, Peltola Emilia, Raquez Jean-Marie, Lambert Pierre, Zhou Quan

Publisher: IEEE-INST ELECTRICAL ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS INC

: 2021

: IEEE Sensors Journal

: IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL

: IEEE SENS J

: 21

: 15

: 17282

: 17289

: 8

: 1530-437X

: 1558-1748

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/JSEN.2021.3078358

Minimally invasive implantation of subdural electrodes can dramatically benefit the patients with various neurological diseases. In modern clinical practice, the implantation procedure of the electrode arrays remains traumatic for patients and increases postoperative infection risk. Here we report a design and insertion technique of thermally activated shape-memory polymer-based electrode array that can recover up to ten times length deformation. The compressed four-centimeter wide array can be easily packed into a three-millimeter diameter tube and subsequently deployed thought five-millimeter opening in a restricted space between a brain phantom and a simulated skull. The mechanical properties of the developed array are comparable to the materials traditionally employed for the purpose, and the electrical and signal recording properties are preserved after shape deformation and recovery. Additionally, the array is biocompatible and exhibits conformability to a curvy brain surface. The results demonstrate that insertion of the electrode array through a small hole into a restricted space similar to subdural cavity is possible, which may inspire future solution of minimal invasive implantation for patients suffering from epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or tetraplegia.