Active electrode arrays by chip embedding in a flexible silicone carrier

Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2006:2006:2811-5. doi: 10.1109/IEMBS.2006.260786.

Abstract

Future cochlear implants demand a higher density of stimulation sites (electrodes) and enhanced functionality (e.g. feedback information). The current generation of implanted cochlear prostheses is making use of a completely "passive scheme" and cannot meet these requirements. An "all-silicon" concept integrating active components with passive electrodes in silicon has been proposed but does not offer the flexibility/stretchability of current silicone-based devices. This paper introduces a novel concept based on silicon chip embedding in a flexible silicone carrier. The process and experimental results will be presented. The concept is also applicable to other types of implanted electrodes, e.g. retinal implants.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible / chemistry
  • Cochlear Implants*
  • Elasticity
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Microelectrodes*
  • Silicones*

Substances

  • Coated Materials, Biocompatible
  • Silicones