A group of researchers led by John A. Rogers (materials engineer and chemist at Northwestern University in Chicago) has published in Science the creation of a flexible implant that relieves pain, in addition, it disappears when it fulfills its function.
This drug-free device was manufactured with a biodegradable and biocompatible water-soluble elastomer, in addition, it applies cold to nerves to numb them and blocks pain signals from reaching the brain.
An external pump allows to activate the implant remotely and increase or decrease its intensity (at the user’s taste), and when it is no longer necessary, is naturally absorbed in the body.
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The device measures five millimeters, its width is similar to a sheet of paper, it wraps around the affected nerve and takes advantage of the physical process of evaporation because has a coolant that evaporates at a specific location on the nerve.
For cooling to occur, the apparatus contains tiny microfluidic channels filled with liquid refrigerant (perfluoropentane) and dry nitrogen gas. When liquid and gas flow into a shared chamber, a reaction occurs so that the liquid evaporates, meanwhile, a sensor monitors the temperature of the nerve so it doesn’t get too cold.
Researchers have to precisely control the duration and temperature of cooling, but by monitoring the implant, flow rates are adjusted to establish a point that blocks pain safely (in this way, they avoid possible damage to the tissues).
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The effectiveness of the device has already been demonstrated in rats with good resultsTherefore, they want to start tests in people to verify its usefulness.
The device will be valuable for the recovery of patients undergoing surgeries or amputations, in addition, surgeons would take advantage of the surgical intervention to insert the implant.
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