Project Description:

Peripheral nerve injuries are a significant clinical challenge, often resulting in long-term disability and requiring surgical intervention. However, current methods for monitoring nerve regeneration—such as EMG, Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS), and Tinel’s Test—are either subjective, invasive, or only effective months after surgery. This delay in detection limits a clinician’s ability to intervene early when outcomes can still be improved.
Our project, Mind the Gap, aims to fill this critical diagnostic void with a novel hydrogel-coated needle electrode capable of detecting millivolt-scale electrical signals associated with early-stage nerve regeneration, as early as four weeks post-operation. The hydrogel coating enhances signal stability and biocompatibility, allowing for more accurate and sensitive recordings than traditional EMG needles.
The device is designed to be minimally invasive, single-use, and compatible with standard electrophysiological equipment, providing quantitative output that can aid surgeons and rehabilitation specialists in making timely decisions. Our prototype was tested across varying voltage inputs and electrode types to validate signal sensitivity and noise reduction. By offering objective, early insights into nerve healing, this device has the potential to improve clinical outcomes, reduce unnecessary procedures, and enhance patient engagement during recovery.