Laser-fabrication of peripheral nerve cuff electrodes with integrated microfluidic channels

A process for semi-automated microfabrication of multi-contact nerve cuff electrodes is presented. Applying this process, samples of self-spiralling cuffs with an integrated microfluidic channel were produced and tested with respect to electrical as well as fluidic properties. The novel cuffs are exclusively made from silicone rubber an platinum foil. They provide an electrical interface to the peripheral nerve and additionally allow the controlled release of pharmaceutical agents.