Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objectives. To examine the performance and reliability of a redesigned implantable intrathecal catheter. Materials and Methods. ⋯ Comparison of data relating to implant techniques demonstrated a variety of catheter implant techniques (entry, positioning, anchoring) with no correlation between any one technique and the common complications. Conclusions. Performance data and physician assessments indicate that this catheter is an improvement over the previously available catheter.
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Electrical signals can be recorded using long-term implanted nerve cuff electrodes in human peripheral nerves. Reliable detection of sensory nerve signals is essential if such signals are to be of use in sensory-based functional electrical stimulation neural prosthetics as a replacement for artificial sensors (switches, strain gauges, etc.). In this review, the signal characteristics of the sensors, the nerve interface, signal processing, and an example of human application to restore motor functions are described.
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Objective. The effect of the stationary period on the muscle afferent responsiveness to passive stretch was studied to determine if muscle afferent activity might be suitable as feedback in motor-neural prostheses control. Methods. ⋯ Conclusions. It is suggested that the enhancement in afferent responses caused by the increased intertrial delay may be explained by the change in the mechanical properties of the intrafusal and extrafusal muscle fibers. The consequences of this, when applying muscle afferent activity in motor-neuro prostheses, are discussed.
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Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an efficient means for treatment of the postsurgical lumbar spine condition known as failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS). Although the devices and the implantation techniques are well established and the technology is sophisticated, there are some complications caused by hardware failures. This study was aimed at identifying the most frequent types of hardware failures and their causes in FBSS patients treated with SCS. ⋯ Second in frequency were receiver (model 3470) failures due to insulation leakage at the plug connection site (n= 2). In one case, extension cable breakage caused dysfunction of the system, and another dysfunction was caused by distal extension cable disconnection. In conclusion, SCS is a low-complication procedure for treatment of benign low-back pain, but seems to be prone to lead and insulation failures.