A Preliminary Study on the Method for Stable and Reliable Implantation of Neural Interfaces into Peripheral Nervous System

Abstract

This paper presents a preliminary study on the method for stable and reliable implantation of neural interfaces into peripheral nervous system (PNS). The implantation of the neural interfaces such as a microelectrode array would be regarded as the most important first step in carrying out diverse neuroscientific studies accompanying the experiment for electrical-stimulation of PNS and/or direct recording of neural signal. Because the result of surgical implantation significantly influences on the overall performance of the study, we focus on investigating a more effective implantation method which facilitates achieving the successful implantation result such as: reliable penetration of nerve membranes, avoidance of neurological damage to the peripheral nerve, prevention of microelectrode fracture in inserting, and long-term stability. One of key reasons of difficulty for implantation is that the PNS is encircled with pliable but tough internal and external membranes obstructing the straightforward insertion of the microelectrodes. In this preliminary study, with consideration for this elemental property of the PNS, we attempt to utilize high-frequency mechanical vibration in inserting the microelectrode into the nerve. The result on pilot experiment for feasibility assessment demonstrates helpfulness and potential applicability of the proposed method.