Detection of Neural Block Through Frequency Analysis of EMG Signals

Unmet Need
Regional anesthesia is commonly performed using local anesthetics to afford intra- and post-operative pain relief and can eliminate the use of opioids perioperatively. This has become a critical issue in light of the worldwide opiate crisis. However, no objective monitor exists to gauge the effectiveness of the medication administered to reduce pain. The current standard of care is to ask the patient whether they feel anything. This is a very subjective approach that cannot be used when the patient cannot communicate such as when the patient is also under general anesthesia, a child, or even non-human (veterinary uses). There is a clear need for a method of objectively determining the effectiveness of regional anesthetics.
 
Technology Overview
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a novel monitor that objectively measures and reports the effect of local anesthetics by detecting changes in the underlying non-stimulated electromyogram (EMG) after administration of local anesthetic. In animal studies, the blockade monitoring system was demonstrated the effectiveness of a regional anesthetic under controlled conditions. Preliminary data in children and adults revealed a clear (statistically significant) clinically important change immediately after administration of local anesthetic in a variety of types of block.
 
Stage of Development
Animal and human studies have confirmed the potential of an objective regional anesthetic monitor.

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