User:AnishJ/sandbox/Peripheral Nerve Interface
A peripheral nerve interface is the bridge between the peripheral nervous system and a machine processor which serves as a bi‐directional information transducer recording and sending signals between the human body and an electrical computer interface. Many researchers are focused on developing peripheral nerve interfaces for neuroprosthesis linking the human nervous system to robotic prosthetics in order to mimic natural sensorimotor control and function. [1] Research in the area may be used to assist patients with spinal cord injury, brain injury, or neurodegenerative diseases to restore lost motor or sensory functionality. Successful implantation of peripheral nerve interfaces depend on a number of factors which include appropriate indication, preoperative testing, differentiated planning of the impant, and functional training.[2] Typically microelectrode devices are implanted adjacent to, around or within the nerve trunk to establish contact with the peripheral nervous system. Different approaches may be used depending on the type of signal attainable and desired. Peripheral nerve interfaces may be divided into extraneural and intrafascular categories. Extraneural electrodes include the cuff and epineurial electrodes and intrafascular consist of both penetrating and regenerative electrodes.
Electrode Interfacing
In bioengineering the term interface includes all the elements of a system between the machine processor and the human tissue. This includes the electrode, sensor, and internal wires that link the inner body tissues with the outer processor, data-acquisition circuitry, and command unit for controlling the effector Prosthesis) or artifact that is produced. [2] One key component for an interface design is the electrode that captures bioelectrical activity or applies current into the living tissue, and the interface material transforming biological activity into electrical signals. From an engineering point of view, the neural interface is a bidirectional transducer that establishes a neuro-technical contact between a technical device and a neural structure within the body. The objective of this transducer is to record bioelectrical signals from natural sensors of the body and the artificial excitation of nerves and/or muscles. From a biological point of view, such an interface is a foreign body. Both views have to be brought together to consider the requirements and complex aspects of biocompatibility. [3]
Functionality
Spectrum of function non invasive, invasive, regenerative
Trade offs
Invasiveness vs resolution
Bioelectronic Interfaces
Bioelectronic signals - user input
EMG input, peripheral nerve input, CNS input
Uses Conduction Blocking Neuromodulation Stimulation Recording