Soft and stretchable organic bioelectronics for continuous intra-operative neurophysiological monitoring during microsurgery

Abstract

Continuous intra-operative neurophysiological monitoring (CINM) that provides precise mapping of neural anatomy through the entire microsurgery process is essential to preserve the structural and functional integrity of the nerve. However, bulky and rigid electrodes used currently in clinics are usually unable to reliably maintain continuous and stable contacts with the vulnerable and complex nerve networks, thus often resulting in detrimental post-operative complications, such as hemiplegia and sensory disturbances. Here, we describe a biomechanically compatible, suture-free, and individually reconfigurable CINM based on soft and stretchable organic electronic materials. Due to both low impedance and modulus of our conducting polymer electrodes, we achieved for the first time continuous recording of near-field action potential with high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal invasiveness during microsurgeries. Utilizing this unprecedented CINM modality, in conjunction with localized neurostimulation, we further demonstrated our approach in enabling optimal post-operative prognosis in preclinical animal models by preserving normal neural functions after a variety of tumor resection surgeries.