Project Team

Simon Giszter, PhD, Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, and School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel

Taegyo Kim, PhD, Neurobiology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, Drexel

Benjamin Binder-Markey, PhD, DPT, Physical Therapy, College of Nursing and Health Professions, and BME, Drexel

Abstract

Critical diagnostic data for neural and neuromuscular disorders are collected from intramuscular electromyography (EMG). Currently, electrodiagnostic EMG is as much an art as science requiring extremely skilled individuals for the reliable acquisition and interpretation of results, which can still vary from tester to tester. We are developing a system that simplifies the current procedures allowing consistent and rapid acquisition of EMG data by leveraging novel multi-channel EMG needles and signal processing methods to provide high quality data in a single needle insertion, enabled by our patented braid manufacturing methods and signal processing technologies. Current technology requires multiple probing needle insertions to collect the required number of motor units within the EMG signal. Our technology records multiple units simultaneously over the needle length in single insertion, reducing test time, increasing reliability and reducing patient discomfort. The target market for this system is any practitioner who performs electrodiagnostic testing throughout a patient’s journey, including Neurology, Orthopedics, Neurosurgery, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation practices. Over the project we seek to further develop a needle design suitable for a clinician, demonstrate the technology in animal models as a proof-of-concept, and have sufficient information to allow the move to rigorous preclinical testing and FDA discussions.