Mechanical suitability of an endovascular braincomputer interface

We have developed a novel method for delivering recording and stimulating stent-electrode arrays (Stentrodes) to the cortex via blood vessels using minimally invasive surgical procedures. We compared radial, delivery and retraction forces exhibited by custom-made thin-film Stentrodes with commercially available braided and laser cut Nitinol stents. We observed the deployment and retraction force of the Stentrode was comparable to commercially available stents used for neuro-interventional procedures such as clot removal or coil placement. Further, we evaluated the radial force of the Stentrodes, and similarly, they were comparable to compression forces observed from FDA approved stents designed for deployment within cortical vessels. Given the similarities in mechanical properties of the Stentrode with other stents, this work support the hypothesis that chronic implantation of the Stentrode to a specific cortical location using minimally invasive angiography is feasible and in alignment with acceptable forces exerted on implanted vessels following stent deployment.