Introduction

The characteristics of the presented invention make possible the acquisition of surface electromyographic signals and echographic imaging from the same portion of muscle. A two-layered structure of silicone rubber provides support for both electrodes and connections, allows for the minimisation of echoes that could be produced at the interface with the skin, prevents the formation of air bubbles and makes the electrode transparent to ultrasounds.

Technical features

The joint analysis of the electric activity generated by the muscle during a contraction and of muscular structures via echographic imaging is currently limited to different muscular regions. Indeed, the joint acquisition of echographic imaging and surface electromyographic signals from the same portion of muscle would require the placement of an echographic probe above the recording electrodes. In such a case, the image of the muscular tissue would be deformed by the acoustical characteristics of the materials constituting the electrodes, while the gel used between the echographic probe and the skin would generate short circuits within the sampling electrodes of the surface electromyographic signal. In traditional systems, echographic imaging is recorded in different moments or from separate portions of muscle. The characteristics of the invented device make possible a joint analysis of electrophysiological parameters and echographic images from the same portion of tissue without having large distortions of either ultrasonographic images and electromyographic signals.

Possible Applications

• Sports medicine;
• Studies of ergonomics: postural control;
• Clinical neurophysiology: diagnosis of neuropathies and myopathies;
• Potentials of fasciculation studies.

Advantages

• Joint acquisition of electromyographic signals and ultrasound images;
• Potential improvement in the diagnosis sensitivity of neuromuscular diseases;
•  Two-layers structure made of silicone rubber that provides support to the electrodes and connections while minimizing the echo that can be created in the point of contact with the skin;
• Avoids the formation of air bubbles.