Abstract
Introduction
Bone-anchored devices have been used as skin-crossing conduits to record neuromuscular signals in sedated animals. Long-term recordings from cognisant subjects must be assessed. Hypothesis A bone-anchored device is suitable as a conduit for epimysial EMG (Electromyogram) recordings and is reliable in the long-term.
Methods
The bone-anchored device was implanted into the medial aspect of an ovine tibia (n=1), and the epimysial electrode was sutured onto the peroneus tertius muscle. Epimysial and Surface EMG signals were recorded for 12 weeks.
Results
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was greater for epimysial (5.1) than surface electrodes (1.6). SNR deteriorated near the end of 12 weeks, due to debris in an external connector.
Discussion and Conclusion
Implanted electrodes improve SNR, selectivity, signal reliability and reduce cross-talk. Bone-anchored devices allow hard-wired connections without infection or fatigue at the skin-interface. Hard-wired connections will enable more advanced prosthetic control. This is the first known use of a bone-anchored device to acquire physiological signals from a cognisant subject.
