Problem
Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a widely used method to monitor brain activity. EEG uses electrodes that detect electrical activity within the brain that provides crucial information about neurological function. Conventional EEG systems with wired electrodes are used in clinical and laboratory settings, limiting utility and long-term monitoring. Wireless, wearable EEG systems would be useful for applications beyond the clinic, enabling monitoring at home or in situations where monitoring is performed during high motion or for long-term application. For example, patients suffering aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage are at high risk of cerebral vasospasm, which can occur days to weeks after the initial event, requiring a visit to the clinic. A device allowing continuous EEG monitoring for an extended period would be a vast improvement to the current standard of care.
Solution
Dr. Wang and his team have developed an EEG electrode that can record high-quality signals from the brain while exhibiting an extended service life. The developed EEG is a wireless, wearable device capable of being integrated into a headband for patients needing to remove and reattach the electrodes during bathing or exercise or for application as a compact, single device exhibiting strong adhesion that can directly stick to the skin. This technology can be used for continuous EEG recording over a period of as long as four weeks. The electrode system exhibits low impedance, a high signal-to-noise ratio, long stability, and is constructed using highly stable conductive polymer-based materials. The developed EEG system has significant potential for application within neurocritical care units, in seizure detection, as a STAT EEG device in ER or inpatient settings, and for use in EEG monitoring without the need for a professional epileptologist.
About the inventor
Dr. Wang is an Assistant Professor in Biomedical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Wang has co-authored numerous journal articles in his area of expertise and oversees the operation of the Wang Lab, conducting biomedical research at the university. Dr. Wang has received numerous awards and fellowships, including the Materials Research Society (MRS) Gold Graduate Student Award, NIH F32 NRSA Postdoctoral Fellowship, and NIH K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award. His work focuses on nanomaterial/technology development, electronics/wearable electronics, and genetic approaches for application in neural interfacing.
