Transient Bioelectronic Implants

Recently developed classes of electronic materials create an opportunity to engineer ‘transient’ electronic devices that dissolve, disintegrate, degrade or otherwise physically disappear at triggered times or with controlled rates. This talk describes the latest work in bioresorbable classes of transient devices, designed as temporary implants with therapeutic function. Presented examples range from ultraminiaturized, self-powered cardiac pacemakers, to electrical stimulators of the diaphragm, phrenic nerve and spinal cord - each with well-defined envisioned uses in clinical care.