Intraoperative Neuromuscular Monitoring via Soft, Skin-Mounted Wireless Devices

NU 2017-108

INVENTORS

John Rogers*

SHORT DESCRIPTION

This technology introduces a soft, wireless, skin-mounted device that enables non-invasive, real-time monitoring of neuromuscular function during surgical procedures, reducing patient discomfort and procedural complexity.

BACKGROUND

Conventional intraoperative neuromuscular monitoring relies on hard-wired, percutaneous electrodes that are invasive, time intensive, and require specialized personnel—issues that can lead to increased patient discomfort and higher costs. There is a critical need for a non-invasive, cost-effective, and easy-to-use technology that maintains high signal fidelity during surgery.

ABSTRACT

This invention details a lightweight, soft, and skin-integrated wireless biosensing system for intraoperative monitoring of neuromuscular function. By replacing traditional invasive and wired electrode systems with a conformal, non-invasive device, the system continuously records and transmits electrical signals and associated physical movements from muscles during surgery. The integration of advanced materials, microelectronics, and wireless communication ensures that the device maintains intimate contact with the skin—even on complex anatomical curves—while delivering signal quality that matches established clinical standards. This innovation has the potential to improve patient outcomes by providing real-time feedback during peripheral, spinal, and cranial nerve surgeries, and it may also be adapted for postoperative monitoring and nerve recovery assessment.

APPLICATIONS

Intraoperative neuromuscular monitoring
- Enables continuous, real-time tracking of nerve and muscle activity during surgery.
Non-invasive surface electromyography
- Facilitates high-fidelity measurement of muscle electrical activity without penetrating the skin.
Wireless surgical monitoring
- Eliminates cumbersome wires, streamlining the surgical workflow and reducing setup time.
Postoperative rehabilitation monitoring
- Provides early detection of muscle reinnervation to support timely clinical intervention.

ADVANTAGES

Soft, conformable design
- Ensures comfortable, intimate contact with skin across diverse and sensitive anatomical regions.
Wireless functionality
- Reduces wiring clutter and enhances mobility, making the device easier to use in surgical environments.
Non-invasive measurement
- Eliminates the need for percutaneous electrodes, thereby reducing patient discomfort and risk of complications.
High signal fidelity
- Delivers reliable, clinically comparable performance for accurate neuromuscular function monitoring.
Cost-effective and user-friendly
- Simplifies intraoperative procedures by reducing setup time and the need for specialized personnel.