A comparison of chronic multi-channel cortical implantation techniques: manual versus mechanical insertion.

摘要: High-density multi-channel intra-cortical electrode arrays allow researchers to record simultaneously from populations of neurons for the purpose understanding neural coding and plasticity. These devices have tens hundreds electrodes spaced within a few square millimeters. During insertion, high-density probes can compress cortex several millimeters prior breaking through pia. Compression cortical tissue has been demonstrated result in traumatic brain injury (TBI) which may be major contributor low yield decreased recording longevity. Two insertion techniques chronically implanting multi-wire layer IV primary auditory were compared. A mechanical device, capable rapidly inserting array without visible compression brain, was constructed. The responses broadband clicks pure tones recorded inserted with device compared results manual method using micromanipulator. Both similar number active channels directly following surgery mean signal-to-noise ratio approximately 4.5. Over 60% animals implanted had driven activity at week 6 whereas none manually exhibited functional after 3 weeks. This report provides initial evidence that devices, prevent compression, increase