Far-field RF powering of implantable devices: safety considerations

IEEE Trans Biomed Eng. 2013 Aug;60(8):2107-12. doi: 10.1109/TBME.2013.2246787. Epub 2013 Feb 12.

Abstract

Far-field RF powering is an attractive solution to the challenge of remotely powering devices implanted in living tissue. The purpose of this study is to characterize the peak obtainable power levels in a wireless myoelectric sensor implanted in a patient while maintaining safe local temperature and RF powering conditions. This can serve as a guide for the design of onboard electronics in related medical implants and provide motivation for more efficient power management strategies for implantable integrated circuits. Safe powering conditions and peak received power levels are established using a simplified theoretical analysis and Federal Communications Commission-established limits for radiating antennas. These conditions are subsequently affirmed and improved upon using the finite-element method and temperature modeling in bovine muscle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Body Temperature / physiology
  • Body Temperature / radiation effects
  • Computer Simulation
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Connective Tissue / physiology*
  • Connective Tissue / radiation effects*
  • Electric Power Supplies*
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Energy Transfer
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Equipment Safety*
  • Models, Biological*
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Wireless Technology / instrumentation*