Printed silicone implant cools brain tissue and records activity in rat study
Researchers from several European and UK institutions have reported a 3D printed silicone implant for the brain. The device sits on the surface of the brain, cools a small region and records its electrical signals at the same time. In experiments on rats, the implant suppressed seizure-like activity. The work targets drug-resistant epilepsy, a condition where medication does not control seizures. The reports do not give further details on sample size, printing process or next steps. For additive manufacturing, the case shows soft silicone parts being used as functional medical devices that combine thermal and sensing functions.