insertion-flexible-neural-probes-using-rigid-stiffeners-attached-with

Insertion of Flexible Neural Probes Using Rigid Stiffeners Attached with Biodissolvable Adhesive

Microelectrode  arrays for neural interface devices that are made of biocompatible thin-film  polymer are expected to have extended functional lifetime ...

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

We present here a microfabrication process for multi-layer metal, multi-site, polymer-based neural probes. The process has been used to generate 1-, 2-, and 4-layer trace metal neural probes with highly uniform and reproducible electrode characteristics. Typically, increasing the number of metal layers is assumed to both reduce the width of the neural probes and minimize the injury and glial scarring caused at the implantation site. We show, however, that increasing the number of trace metal layers does not always result in the minimal probe cross-sectional area. A thorough design analysis reveals that the electrode size, along with other design parameters, have interacting effects on the probe cross-sectional area. Moreover, increasing the trace metal layers in the neural probes also increases the design and fabrication cost/time, as well as the likelihood of probe failure. Consequently, all of these factors must be considered when designing a multi-site, neural probe with the objective of minimizing tissue damage.

Optimization of multi-layer metal neural probe design.

We present here a demonstration of a dual-sided, 4-layer metal, polyimide-based electrode array suitable for neural stimulation and recording. The fabrication process outlined here utilizes simple polymer and metal deposition and etching steps, with no potentially harmful backside etches or long exposures to extremely toxic chemicals. These polyimide-based electrode arrays have been tested to ensure they are fully biocompatible and suitable for long-term implantation; their flexibility minimizes the injury and glial scarring that can occur at the implantation site. The creation of dual-side electrode arrays with more than two layers of trace metal enables the fabrication of neural probes with more electrodes without a significant increase in probe size. This allows for more stimulation/recording sites without inducing additional injury and glial scarring.

Article	Year
Optimization of multi-layer metal neural probe design. Conference proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference\| PubMed ID: 23367295	2012
Polymer neural interface with dual-sided electrodes for neural stimulation and recording. Conference proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference\| PubMed ID: 23367296	2012

Kedar G. Shah

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