Advanced neural implants using thin-film polymers

BioMEMS devices can be designed to provide viable neural interfaces for long-term, high-density, two-way communication with selected areas of cerebral cortex. Prototype thin-film polymer implantable microelectrode arrays were developed to extend the microelectrode design space in several ways, including enhanced flexibility, engineered surfaces and coatings, and new types of microchannels. Prototype MEMS silicon microdevices were developed as microsurgical tools for reliably inserting the flexible polymer electrodes into the cerebral cortex. Hybrid polymer microdevices were also developed for neural recording and stimulation combined with micro-drug delivery.