Intravascular stimulation with functionalized NiTi thin films

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in bioelectrical stimulation for the development of innovative medical treatments. High-priority targets for stimulation encompass the brain, nervous system, and cardiosystem. One significant challenge in stimulation therapies is the precise placement of stimulation electrodes close to the target tissue.

One approach to address this challenge involves utilizing the intricate network of blood vessels to position electrodes in close proximity to the desired stimulation target. This minimally invasive method offers several advantages, particularly for short-term treatments. Thin film technology emerges as a promising fabrication method for such devices, especially as blood vessels become narrower, necessitating smaller stimulation devices.

This presentation covers the fabrication and characterization of a functionalized, multilayered NiTi thin film device, in vitro stimulation testing, and an animal study designed to explore neurovascular stimulation. The results confirm its feasibility for stimulation therapies. Furthermore, the animal study reveals the initiation of physiological responses through intravascular stimulation.

In summary, our research demonstrates the potential of functionalized NiTi thin films for intravascular stimulation, offering promising prospects for advanced medical interventions.