Development of a 'smart' needle integrated with an impedance sensor to determine nerve proximity for nerve blocking (anaesthetic) procedures

摘要

To improve the safety of ultrasound-guided peripheral nerve block (USgPNB) we wish to provide the clinician with impedance data, to identify the type of tissue at the needle tip. By creating a 'smart' needle that can measure tissue bioimpedance, the needle tip location will be identified and ultimately will indicate needle non-contact, contact with or penetration through a nerve. Our solution will provide more sensitive identification of the target nerve as well as real-time guidance of the needle toward the nerve. This will enable more precise administration of an anaesthetic agent around the nerve.