A programmable ultrasound-induced wireless implantable stimulator for personalized chronic pain management

Description:

  • Wireless Ultrasound-Powered Implant for Personalized Chronic Pain Management

Abstract

USC researchers have developed a flexible, ultrasound-induced wireless implantable stimulator for personalized chronic pain management. The miniaturized device wirelessly harvests ultrasound energy to deliver programmable electrical stimulation for spinal cord neuromodulation without batteries or wired connections. By integrating a piezoelectric receiver, rectifier circuitry, and flexible electrodes, the implant enables targeted and quantitative stimulation. Machine-learning–based pain classification supports adaptive stimulation strategies, demonstrated in live animal models. This technology provides a foundation for wireless bioelectronic therapies that reduce surgical burden and offer a non-pharmacological approach to chronic pain treatment.  

Benefit

  • Battery-free, wireless operation eliminates bulky implants and repeated surgical replacement

  • Flexible, miniaturized design enables minimally invasive implantation and improved patient comfort

  • Programmable and adaptive stimulation allows personalized pain management based on pain-level classification

Market Application

Chronic pain affects millions of patients and is often treated with opioids or battery-powered spinal cord stimulators requiring invasive surgery and battery replacement. This wireless implantable stimulator offers a minimally invasive, battery-free alternative for long-term pain management. Its small size, flexibility, and ultrasound-powered operation reduce tissue damage, infection risk, and system cost. The technology is applicable to chronic pain associated with cancer, nerve injury, and musculoskeletal disorders, with potential to complement or replace existing electrical stimulation systems.

Publications

Zhou Q., Zeng Y., Gong C. A programmable ultrasound-induced wireless implantable stimulator for personalized chronic pain management, Nature Electronics, 2025.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41928-025-01377-3

Other

  • Demonstrated spinal cord stimulation and pain modulation in live animal models

  • Compatible with future MEMS-based and biologically stable custom electrode designs

  • Available for licensing (exclusive or non-exclusive)

Patent Information:

  • Title: Implantable Piezoelectric Receivers and Stimulators
  • App Type: Provisional
  • Country: United States
  • Serial No.: 63/797,445
  • Patent No.:  
  • File Date: 4/30/2025
  • Issued Date:  
  • Expire Date:  
  • Patent Status: Patent Pending
Direct Link:
https://usc.technologypublisher.com/tech/A_programmable_ultrasound-induced_wi reless_implantable_stimulator_for_personalized_chronic_pain_management
Category(s):
Medical Devices & Delivery Platforms
Keywords:
For Information, Contact:
Veronica Go-Stevens
USC Stevens
vgosteve@usc.edu