From the beginning of human civilisation, communication has had a high level of importance for us. In recent years, we have used electromagnetic spectrum beyond the visible region for telematics communication through radio waves with a radio antenna as a basic part of a radio system. A radio antenna is a tool that possesses the ability to send or receive radio waves. Developed forms of such antennas are still used in our modern-day electronic appliances such as cellphones and televisions. After years of evolution, antennas have found a wide variety of application in telecommunications, entertainment, research, space expeditions, etc. Experts are further exploring the possibility of using antennas in healthcare.
Hwaider Lin, a doctoral student at the Northeastern University, is developing an antenna that could eventually be used in a chip implanted in a patient’s brain to help treat disorders such as depression, severe migraines and other critical conditions which are presently untraceable. Such a revolutionary development has the potential to save many lives. Presently, the only treatment for such conditions is through electromagnetic therapy, using electromagnetic currents to stimulate brain cells. However, this method is largely imprecise as it is difficult to locate the exact region of neurons. Lin believes the chip could make such detection highly precise. Such implants have been termed as medical implant communications systems (MICS). Under this category, several products have been developed such as Capsule Antennas which can be swallowed directly, Integrated Implantable Antennas for eyes and head, and Circularly Polarised Implantable Antennas for the human head.
However, such technology comes with its own set of drawbacks. The research and development procedures are expensive and require a high level of precision in terms of materials and measurements. Simulations in an experimental environment in the development stage are essential to eradicate all possible flaws before the actual human application stage. However, on successful development, such devices are indispensable in healthcare for precision treatment.
Harman Singh