Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface for Prostheses Control: Electrode Comparison

Background This study compared epimysial patch electrodes with intramuscular hook electrodes using monopolar and bipolar recording configurations. The purpose was to determine which strategy transduced muscle signals with better fidelity for control of myoelectric prostheses. Methods One of the two electrode styles, patch (n = 4) or hook (n = 6) was applied to the left extensor digitorum longus muscle in rats. Electrodes were evaluated at the time of placement and at monthly intervals for 4 months. Evaluations consisted of evoked electromyography signals from stimulation pulses applied to the peroneal and tibial nerves in both monopolar and bipolar recording configurations. Results Compared with hook electrodes, patch electrodes recorded larger signals of interest and minimized muscle tissue injury. A bipolar electrode configuration significantly reduced signal noise when compared with a monopolar configuration. Conclusion Epimysial patch electrodes outperform intramuscular hook electrodes during chronic skeletal muscle implantation.