Scientists have developed an implant that relieves pain without the use of drugs.
The sensor is biocompatible andwater soluble device. To work, it wraps around the nerves and, through cooling, numbs the nerves and blocks pain signals to the brain. The developers note that an external pump is used to activate the device. With it, you can increase and decrease the intensity of cooling.
Scheme of the device. Image: Northwestern University
The device uses a phase transitionliquid to gas as a cooling mechanism. The engineers borrowed the design of the electrical nerve cuff and replaced the wires with a microfluidic channel through which a bioinert refrigerant passes. In addition, a thin-film thermal sensor is built into the cuff, which monitors the temperature in real time.
Another advantage of the device is biosolubility. After the need for use disappears, no operation is needed to remove the device. It is naturally absorbed into the body.
The developers believe that the new deviceuseful for rehabilitation after operations and amputations. Surgeons may implant it during a medical procedure to relieve the patient's pain. It is reported that so far the tests have been carried out only on mice.
Cover photo: Northwestern University
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