THE US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has allocated a part of the radio spectrum to help restore function to paralysed limbs.
The new rules will enable a new generation of wireless medical devices which will aid stroke patients and those suffering from brain or spinal cord injuries.
The basis of these devices is Medical Micropower Networks (MMNs) which are ultra-low power wideband networks consisting of multiple transmitters implanted in the body, as well as a wireless controller. These use electric currents to activate and monitor nerves and muscles.
These devices have been approved for use within the 413 to 457MHz range, fitting with the prototype MMN systems already in existence. This frequency is the most efficient for penetrating tissue with radio waves.
This move by the FCC opens the way for trials of MMN systems on humans.
More information from the FCC.
Radio waves to re-activate paralysed muscles and nerves Electronics News
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