Currently there are very few implanted, microsystems medical devices available for citizens in the EU and worldwide, despite the fact that end user requirements are clearly present. There are various reasons for this:

-Limited materials available suitable for encapsulation in the human body. -Packaging and interconnect systems not developed for flexible 3D micro-structures. -Micro-structures, micro-sensors and micro-actuators not developed for medical applications. -Volumes are low for different applications and hence not of interest to large organisations. -Risk is high.

In December 2003, an EU programme, Healthy Aims, was launched to address these issues. This arose from the European microsystems network, NEXUS Medical Devices Group and led to a 26-partner team from 9 countries participating in this ambitious and cross disciplinary project. The range of technologies and target products are as follows:

-RF Communications suitable for implanting into the human. -Implantable power source. -Biocompatible materials. -Micro-electrodes to connect the power source to nerves. -Micro-assembly techniques for 3D, flexible structures requiring coating with biomaterials. -Sensors and actuators to fit inside the body.

The electrically driven medical implants that will be developed from these are:

-Cochlear (enhancement over existing high cost for resolution system) -Retina -Functional Electrical Stimulation for upper and lower limbs -Artificial intra-urethral sphincter -Sphincter sensor -Pressure sensor for long term implant (>10 years) -Glaucoma sensor

This paper will introduce the concepts behind the work and the expected deliverables arising.