Advanced Intelligent stimulation device: HAND movement restoration

Introduction

Very advanced stimulation paradigms applied to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) have been studied for years, even decades. Among these paradigms is the 3D current distribution through multi-contact epineural electrodes. Non-rectangular stimulus waveforms are also of strong interest to provide more efficient or fiber type selective stimulation.

Challenges in Implementation

However, none of these methods have been implemented in an Active Implanted Medical Device (AIMD) and thus almost none have been validated through clinical trials. One of the reasons for this is the high complexity of the needed analogue front end and its safe control by a microcontroller or a digital system.

Project Goals

The AI-HAND project aims at developing a breakthrough, ASIC-based technology, together with a specific self-adapting epineural multi-contact electrode to provide such an AIMD. The demonstration of the clinical relevance of this approach will be achieved through a first-in-man proof of concept aiming at the restoration of hand movements in persons with complete quadriplegia.

Development and Validation

This means that a fully innovative device should be developed and validated in animals, but the real added value will be supported by the clinical trial. Indeed, no animal model exists while the clinical need is clearly stated by clinicians and patients.

Innovative Approach

Thus, this project will innovate concerning both the technology and the therapeutic approach with a minimally invasive concept. Spatial selectivity allows for the stimulation of nerves selectively targeting muscles through 3D current shaping instead of implanting one electrode per muscle.

Long-term Impact

The technology clearly addresses generic issues so that the paradigms and the innovative technology can be further used to stimulate the central nervous system (spinal cord and brain). On a long-term basis, this may drastically open new therapeutics for medical needs that are still unmet.