The algorithm of the electric stimulator VEB-1 software operation

This thesis demonstrates results of the electric stimulator VEB-1 software operation algorithm development. To increase the device efficiency, the algorithm is composed using the frequency beat method. Our software solutions allowed us to provide the needed precision to maintain the operating frequency of the electric current pulses that penetrate through the human body on the level not less than 0,001Hz. The software allows the operator to control the electrostimulation process through the screen, where all active processes are displayed.

Technology of intraoperative neuromonitoring by the method of polyprogram electric stimulation at reconstructive neuroplasty operations

Introduction. When operating on the face and neck, a technology for intraoperatuve neurophysiological monitoring is used to ensure the right nerve function. Aim. Development of a technology for the intraoperatuve neuromonitoring and a practical estimation of its efficiency in the reconstructive neuroplasty surgery. Methods. In 120 patients with the paralysis of mimic muscles after the removal of a cerebellopontine angle neuroma and a facial nerve damage, neuroplasty was performed to restore the innervation. An original technique was developed for identification and monitoring of the functional state of the nerves and muscles intraoperative visual neuromonitoring (IOVNM). Its concept consists in electric stimulation of the nerves within the surgical field and visual observation of the response muscular contractions. A special ESVM-1 electric stimulator with a set of built-in test programs has been created. The control of the instrument, selection of tests, their launch, visual observation of the reactions and the intraoperative monitoring itself are performed by the operating surgeon. Results. The presented technology eliminates the need for a complex equipment for neurophysiological monitoring and does not require the participation of a specialist in neurophysiology. Conclusion. The use of IOVNM during the operation provides an opportunity to assess the functional state of the facial nerve and mimic muscles, to optimize the operation scheme and accelerate its implementation.

Electric Pulses Can Influence Galvanotaxis of Dictyostelium discoideum

Galvanotaxis, or electrotaxis, plays an essential role in wound healing, embryogenesis, and nerve regeneration. Up until now great efforts have been made to identify the underlying mechanism related to galvanotaxis in various cells under direct current electric field (DCEF) in laboratory studies. However, abundant clinical research shows that non-DCEFs including monopolar or bipolar electric field may also contribute to wound healing and regeneration, although the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we designed a novel electric stimulator and applied DCEF, pulsed DCEF (pDCEF), and bipolar pulse electric field (bpEF) to the cells of Dictyostelium discoideum. The cells had better directional performance under asymmetric 90% duty cycle pDCEF and 80% duty cycle bpEF compared to DCEF, with 10 Hz frequency electric fields eliciting a better cell response than 5 Hz. Interestingly, electrically neutral 50% duty cycle bpEF triggered the highest migration speed, albeit in random directions. The results suggest that electric pulses are vital to galvanotaxis and non-DCEF is promising in both basic and clinical researches.

Outcomes of High-Frequency Gastric Electric Stimulation for the Treatment of Severe, Medically Refractory Gastroparesis in Finland

Background and Aims: Severe, medically uncontrollable gastroparesis is a rare entity, which can be treated using a high-frequency gastric electric stimulator implanted surgically. Previous follow-ups have proven positive outcomes with gastric electric stimulator in patients with gastroparesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gastric electric stimulator in patients, in whom gastroparesis could not be controlled by conservative means in our country. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective multi-center cohort comprising all patients who had been implanted gastric electric stimulator for severe, medically refractory gastroparesis during 2007–2015 in Finland. Results: Fourteen patients underwent implantation of gastric electrical stimulator without any postoperative complications. Laparoscopic approach was used in 13 patients (93%). Prior implantation, all patients needed frequent hospitalization for parenteral feeding, 13 had severe nausea, 11 had severe vomiting, 10 had notable weight loss, and 6 had frequent abdominal pain. After operation, none of the patients required parenteral feeding, 11 patients (79%) gained median of 5.1 kg in weight (P < 0.01), and symptoms were relieved markedly in 8 and partially in 3 patients (79%). Of partial responders, two continued to experience occasional vomiting and one mild nausea. Five patients needed medication for gastroparesis after the operation. One patient did not get any relief of symptoms, but gained 6 kg in weight. No major late complications occurred. Conclusion: Gastric electrical stimulator seems to improve the nutritional status and give clear relief of the symptoms of severe, medically uncontrollable gastroparesis. Given the low number of operations, gastric electrical stimulator seems to be underused in Finland.