2018 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting-Peripheral Nerve Interfaces for Amputees

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Mark Mahan, Assistant Professor at the University of Utah, discusses neural interfaces and rehabilitation applications for amputees. He begins by highlighting the role of peripheral nerve surgeons in providing service to the country and how war has influenced surgical advancements for peripheral nerve injuries. He then discusses the use of peripheral nerve interfaces and techniques to power and integrate sensation into electrical prostheses. Dr. Mahan explains the limitations of peripheral nerve interfaces, including the unique forces the extremities are subject to and the potential for failures in earlier designs. He emphasizes the ability of peripheral nerves to regenerate, suggesting a bright future for addressing these challenges. Dr. Mahan also discusses the need for effective and durable prosthetics that are lightweight, dexterous, and provide tactile response. He mentions various myoelectric prostheses on the market and their limitations, such as limited sensory feedback and durability. Dr. Mahan then explores cortical interfaces, highlighting different electrode types and their potential for motor control. He discusses the challenges and limitations of cortical interfaces, such as electrode degradation over time and the lack of commercial viability. The video also covers peripheral nerve interfaces, including cuff electrodes, interfasicular arrays, and sieve electrodes, discussing their successes and failures. Dr. Mahan explains the challenges of all silicon electrodes, including biomechanical compatibility, acute foreign body reactions, and wire fractures. He further explores wireless options, such as implantable EMG signals and neural dust, discussing their potential but also their limitations, such as power consumption and tissue interference. Dr. Mahan concludes by discussing regenerative interfaces, such as regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces and targeted muscle reinnervation, highlighting their potential for motor and sensory control. He also briefly mentions optical electrodes and their use in rodent models. In conclusion, Dr. Mahan emphasizes the need for further research and advancements in peripheral nerve interfaces to improve the functionality, usability, and long-term viability of prosthetics for amputees.

Asset Caption

Mark Alexander Mahan, MD

Keywords

neural interfaces

rehabilitation applications

amputees

peripheral nerve interfaces

prosthetics

regenerative interfaces