Wireless implants for in vivo diagnosis and closed-loop treatment

In this presentation, we will review and discuss recent advances in the research of wireless telemetry for medical applications in our group at UT-Arlington, particularly those based on a similar platform for in vivo monitoring of physiological parameters. System for recording ECoG signals in brain, recording in vivo gastric myoelectric activities in stomach, sensing in vivo strain variations in bladder, and detecting reflux episodes in esophagus have been demonstrated. These systems consist of passive transducers for physiological signal transduction and an active transceiver for signal relay and recording. The real-time in vivo physiological signal acquisition and related neuro-/gastro-stimulation form a closed loop between the human body and control electronics. Continuous feedback mechanisms that could be implemented in the closed loop provide treatment strategies for optimization to reach a desired comfort level for individual patient. The wireless systems quantitatively document symptoms and associated physiological signals over a long term while allowing the patients to resume regular daily activities. This will enable more precise diagnosis and prognosis of diseases for the caregivers.