Hierarchical Surface Restructuring

HSR™

The Needs of HSR

X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) image of a 16-channel spinal cord stimulation (SCS) microelectrode array

The Need

Medical device companies are faced with the challenge of enhancing implantable electrode performance. Electrodes and microelectrode arrays in most long-term implantable neurostimulation devices require:

  • Low impedance for sensing and recording applications.
  • High charge injection capacity to achieve safe and reversible stimulation.

Limitations of Electrodes with Larger Geometric Surface Areas

Electrodes with larger geometric surface areas perform better, but take up more space, limit spatial selectivity, and can harm patients. Maximizing device performance and selectivity often requires introducing a larger number of electrodes or constructing a microelectrode array to activate more neurons or discrete groups of neurons.

How can medical device companies improve device performance, longevity, and effectiveness while optimizing electrode size?

Pulse Technologies’ patented technology – Hierarchical Surface Restructuring (HSR™) – is a game-changer that helps medical device companies achieve the above objectives. HSRTM was developed to enhance implantable electrode performance while allowing for electrode miniaturization.

The Technology

HSR™, a True Game-changer for Next-generation Medical Devices

Pulse Technologies’ patented HSR™ technology uses ultrashort pulse lasers to increase the surface roughness and electrochemical surface area of implantable electrodes by many orders of magnitude.

This novel technology has applications in:

  • Neuromodulation
  • Cardiac rhythm management
  • Electrophysiology mapping catheters
  • Cochlear implants

HSR™ can be applied to both electrodes and assembled leads. It is easy to use and has no coating-like overspray, so no masking is required. HSR™ tunes electrode surfaces to improve performance. This proprietary process can be used with a wide range of materials, geometries, and thicknesses and can restructure various surface topographies, depths, and intercolumnar spacing.

Proprietary processes include:

  • Creation of customizable topographical features of varying length scales.
  • Generation of athermal material ablation, leaving behind no heat-affected zones or microcracking.
  • Creation of a more durable surface compared to many coating technologies.

Pulse’s HSR™ technology is a true game changer for the next generation of medical devices. In today’s competitive market, it can be a true differentiator for medical device companies as this novel technology improves device performance, longevity, and effectiveness.

HSR™ Benefits

Compared to conventional coating and additive surface technologies, Hierarchical Surface Restructuring offers the following benefits:

  • Surface tunability
  • Ultra-high surface area
  • Hierarchical surface structure
  • Unprecedented charge storage capacity
  • High capacitance and low impedance
  • Applicable on complex geometries
  • Well-suited for a diverse range of sensing, recording, and stimulating applications
  • Scalable and commercially viable
  • Can be applied to finished devices
  • Market acceptance: active clinical and trial programs underway

Bio Compatibility Logo

Successful Biocompatibility Testing with HSR™

HSRTM has successfully cleared all biocompatibility testing with both platinum and titanium electrodes. Biocompatibility was evaluated by performing comprehensive cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation testing. Testing was performed at an independent lab in the United States that is accredited under the recognized international standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017

Experience our HSR™️ Surfaces Interactively

Recent News & Blogs on HSR™

Video Explains the Benefits of Hierarchical Surface Restructuring

Video Explains the Benefits of Hierarchical Surface Restructuring

This video, Hierarchical Surface Restructuring for Electrodes And Microelectrode Arrays, will introduce you to a unique technology that uses lasers to rearrange the molecular surface of electrode materials and promises to enhance the performance of next-generation sensing, recording and stimulating devices.

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Schedule a discussion on how HSR™️ can improve your device.

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