A technique for electrically inserting electrode arrays into peripheral nerves

The authors developed a system based on high-frequency cutting methods to facilitate the insertion of multi-dimensional electrode arrays into peripheral nerves. The system incorporates a feedback loop for controlling arc intensity. This should reduce the risk of damage to electrode array and nerve. The high-frequency insertion system (HFIS) was used in a limited number of pilot experiments to insert wire electrodes into the peroneal nerve of the rat. Electrode coating and moistness of the nerve mere found to be very important factors for proper insertion. Recruitment curves obtained with an electrode inserted with the HFIS generally had lower maximum forces and higher threshold currents than curves obtained with a manually inserted electrode