Applications
The comprehensive and versatile Sim4Life simulation platform targets a range of specialized applications with optional modules. In addition to the software tools, they include a broad set of models, documentation and validation, as well as metrology tools.
We work closely with our partners to continually expand our specialized knowledge base and expertise in all application areas and the continually evolving requirements of the regulatory submission process. Comprehensive documentation is available for all of our models and simulations.
Modeling Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Electroceuticals are devices that use electric fields to modulate, stimulate, or block the electrical activity of nerves for mainly medical therapeutic purposes. In order to predict and maximize the selectivity of these devices to target specific nerve functional unit(s) or fiber (axons) types (e.g. A-, B- or C-fibers), coupled electric and neuronal simulations are used based on predefined neuro-electric compartmental axonal models assigned to realistic nerve trajectories within computational human body models or phantoms.
EM-induced Neuronal Dynamics
Electromagnetic fields interact with neurons. The interaction can be stimulating, inhibitory, or synchronizing, and it can be intended or unintended. Unintended stimulation by exposure to strong low frequency fields is for example occurring in MRI gradient coils, while examples of intended stimulation include therapeutic applications (transcranial stimulation, deep brain stimulation, functional electrical stimulation, etc.) or neuroprosthetic devices (artificial retina, neuroprosthetic limbs, etc.). Modeling is particularly valuable for treatment and device safety and efficacy assessment, but also to optimize medical device performance.
MRI Active Implant Safety
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging modality, which is indispensable in diagnosing several pathologies. Nevertheless, the presence of medical implants in some patients taking an MRI scan may lead to undesirable interactions of the implants with the radiofrequency (RF) radiation necessary for the operation of the scanner. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a comprehensive risk assessment methodology, in order to determine the specific conditions that would permit an MRI examination for implant-bearing patients.
Thermal Therapies
Hyperthermia cancer therapy (hyperthermic oncology) is used in combination with radio- and/or chemotherapy to treat a wide range of cancers. It employs electromagnetic energy to mildly heat a tumor, frequently resulting in dramatic improvement of initial response and survival rates. Due to the strongly inhomogeneous nature of the human body and the impact of physiological factors such as blood perfusion and thermo-regulation this is a demanding task.
Wireless Power Transfer
Wireless power transfer is an emerging technology and is expected to become ubiquitous in the human environment for charging electronic or household appliances, medical implants or, even, cars. Therefore, it is important for all WPT systems to operate in compliance with the guidelines that regulate exposure of the general public and professionals to electromagnetic fields.
Focused Ultrasound
Focused ultrasound (FUS) and high intensity FUS (HIFU) have found valuable application in a wide range of medical treatments: tumor ablation; treatment of epilepsy, movement disorder, and chronic pain; reversible blood-brain-barrier opening (e.g., to increase uptake of Parkinson drugs); clot lysis; and neurostimulation. They offer the potential of targeting locations deep inside the human body without requiring surgical access.
Wireless Body Area Networks
Wireless body area networks (WBAN) consist of wirelessly connected nodes of sensors or actuators, which are often enhanced with data processing. The nodes are placed in, on and around/off the human body forming a network for the continuous and unobtrusive monitoring of physiological and/or environmental signals to support medical, lifestyle and entertainment applications.
