EPFL Neuro X Institute researchers have developed an innovative soft robot with a tentacle-like cortial electrode array that can be deployed through a small hole in the skull to monitor the brain. The prototype featured an electrode array that can be inserted through a 2cm hole, but when all of its 6 spiraled arms are deployed, covers a surface of 4cm.
The cortial electrode array consists of gold components and a transparent elastomer material, enabling neurosurgeons to work on a larger surface area. Its spiral-shaped arms evenly distributes the electrode area and covers more brain surface, making complex brain surgeries more accessible as well as less risky.
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Minimally invasive neuro-technologies are essential approaches to offer efficient, patient-tailored therapies. We needed to design a miniaturized electrode array capable of folding, passing through a small hole in the skull and then deploying in a flat surface resting over the cortex. We then combined concepts from soft bio-electronics and soft robotics,” said Stéphanie Lacour, professor at EPFL Neuro X Institute.
