"Microcontrolled injectable stimulators based on electronic rectification of high frequency current bursts"

-Dr. Laura Becerra

Thesis supervisor: Dr. Antoni Ivorra

17/10/2016

Brief Description of the Thesis:

Neuroprostheses based on dense networks of wireless microstimulators have been proposed in the past for restoring movement in paralysis patients. Yet existing implantable microstimulators are too bulky and invasive for implementing such networks because of the powering approaches they employ. To overcome this limitation, we recently proposed an innovative electrical stimulation method incorporating electronic implants, and avoiding typical bulky components for powering such as coils and batteries. In this sense, the method will enable miniaturization levels without precedents for microstimulators. This thesis demonstrates that the method allows the development of digitally addressable microstimulators. In particular, it describes the development, characterization and in vivo assay of microcontrolled injectable stimulators made only of commercially available components. They perform charge-balanced neuromuscular stimulation in response to commands modulated in high frequency current bursts which meet safety standards. This thesis paves the way to future ultrathin stimulators based on a custom integrated circuit.

Experience as a PhD student:

My experience as a PhD student at DTIC was very valuable. I had the opportunity to work at the Biomedical Electronic Research Group (BERG) leaded by PhD. Antoni Ivorra. BERG offers a very good learning and working environment, where it is a pleasure to do research. The DTIC is very efficient, and it supports students with scholarships, travel grants, etc. I benefited from this scholarship through my PhD studies, and I also benefited from two travel grants to disseminate our work in two International Conferences.