Robotic placement of experimental prototypes for wireless gastric electrical stimulation

Introduction: Gastric electrical stimulation (GES) is an effective treatment for gastroparesis. However, the available devices are equipped with bulky batteries that need to be replaced regularly by surgery. Methods: Our new implantable system consists of only 6 passive components in addition to a diode and does not require a battery. Two acute porcine experiments were carried out with a robotic surgical system for placement of the prototypes. The stimulation parameters were set with an extracorporeal unit and GES was performed. The recorded electromyography (EMG) signal was subjected to a multiresolution analysis. Results: The robot-assisted placement of the prototypes was successful. The inductive energy transfer was confirmed to be functional and EMG analysis revealed changes in gastric electrical activity. Conclusions: Further technological and rapid regulatory solutions are being sought in order to start a clinical trial with the next generation devices in the near future.