3D multifunctional integumentary membranes for spatiotemporal cardiac measurements and stimulation across the entire epicardium.

ABSTRACT: Means for high-density multiparametric physiological mapping and stimulation are critically important in both basic and clinical cardiology. Current conformal electronic systems are essentially 2D sheets, which cannot cover the full epicardial surface or maintain reliable contact for chronic use without sutures or adhesives. Here we create 3D elastic membranes shaped precisely to match the epicardium of the heart via the use of 3D printing, as a platform for deformable arrays of multifunctional sensors, electronic and optoelectronic components. Such integumentary devices completely envelop the heart, in a form-fitting manner, and possess inherent elasticity, providing a mechanically stable biotic/abiotic interface during normal cardiac cycles. Component examples range from actuators for el

SUBMITTER: Xu L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4521772 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature