[home] [Personal Program] [Help]

---

Session: Poster session II
Session starts: Thursday 24 January, 16:00

---

Ernest Boskovic ()
Marcel G.J. Nederhoff ()
Dyan Ramekers ()
Leonard J. van Schelven ()

Abstract:
DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF A MINIATURE IMPLANTABLE ELECTRONIC STIMULATOR Ernest Boskovic*, Marcel G.J. Nederhoff, Dyan Ramekers and Leonard J. van Schelven Department of Medical Technology & Clinical Physics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands ABSTRACT To conduct specific scientific research in small animals, including a chronic electrical stimulation, researchers need a sufficiently small implantable device that can apply these electric stimuli, and which uses a study dependent stimulation protocol. The total desired stimulation period can vary from several weeks to even a few months. We designed, developed and manufactured such a miniature low-power programmable stimulator and successfully applied it in two studies. We made two versions, a very small stimulator for mice and rats (25x14x5mm) and a slightly bigger stimulator for guinea pigs (32x23x6mm). The stimulator can be programmed to deliver a specific pattern of controlled electrical current pulses. The elliptically shaped enclosure consists of a waterproof resin cast with a thin silicone skin for biocompatibility. The stimulator has two output wires covered by biocompatible silicone tubes for electrical isolation. It is powered by a non-rechargeable battery. The current output has a compliance voltage of about 10 V and can deliver several mA of monophasic pulses, with a repolarization phase for discharge purposes. The maximal achievable duration is dependent on the stimulation protocol used. After implantation of the device, under the skin of the animal, communication is possible using an infrared remote control. This allows turning the device on or off, reading its serial number or adjusting stimulation protocol settings. Thanks to this novel device, our researchers are already able to conduct two studies, one into the effect of the vagus nerve stimulation on atherosclerosis in mice and rats, and a second study on electrical stimulation in combination with specific growth factors of mostly degenerated auditory nerve fibers in an attempt to functionally preserve those hearing cells in guinea pig.