Multichannel biomagnetic system for study of electrical activity in the brain and heart

Article Abstract:

Medical technology in the areas of anatomical and morphological imaging, and biochemical and bioelectrical functioning has become quite sophisticated. While noninvasive techniques are available for obtaining information from some organs and systems, localizing sources of bioelectric current in the heart and brain still requires invasive techniques, and the data that can be obtained are limited. Increasing knowledge in this area would be important in diagnosing and treating epilepsy, conductivity problems of cardiac tissue, and other abnormalities of the heart and the brain. This study looked at a newly developed method for measuring the magnetic fields that are generated by bioelectric currents. Magnetic fields are easier to localize with noninvasive methods. The device is run in a shielded room to prevent outside interference of electromagnetic fields. The sensor that scans the patient consists of 37 superconducting pickup coils and counterwound compensating coils. It is connected to a superconducting quantum interference device system. Information is processed by a computer. The technique was tested on 13 patients with a form of epilepsy and on 10 patients suffering from Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, a problem of heart conductivity. Results of magnetoencephalography (MEG; record of the magnetic fields in the brain) using the technique showed positive results in 11 of 13 epilepsy patients that were consistent with data obtained from other diagnostic methods. In three of the five WPW patients, results of magnetic measurement showed abnormalities consistent with the disease and with measurements taken by invasive methods. These early results indicate that measuring magnetic activity with this noninvasive method should become an important tool in clinical diagnosis. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Epilepsy, Heart conduction system, Magnetoencephalography

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High voltage electrical treatment of refractory dermal ulcers

Article Abstract:

High voltage pulsed current (HVPC) has shown promise in treating feet sores unresponsive to traditional therapies. HVPC was 100% effective in an elderly patient with unresponsive feet sores. Specialists had recommended amputation. The electrical current is thought to attract and stimulate cells involved in the healing process, reduce infection risk, and enhance blood flow. Effective current amounts have not been identified. HPVC may not be safe in patients with cancer or pacemakers.

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Foot, Electric currents, Electric current, Foot ulcer, Foot diseases

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Babies' brain scan noise research

Article Abstract:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can determine whether damage has occurred to an infant's brain. It is a non invasive method of scanning which produces a picture similar to an X-ray. The Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Paediatrics at University College London are now pioneering the development and use of MRI scanners.

Usage, Magnetic resonance imaging, Brain damage

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