Graphene Micro-electrode Array for Brain Mapping in Neuro-oncology

This study focuses on testing a new type of electrode used during brain surgeries, especially those involving the removal of tumors. Traditional electrodes are made of plastic with metal contacts and help map brain functions to protect important areas during surgery. However, these electrodes have design limitations, as they struggle to conform to the brain's complex shape and require large contacts to detect electrical signals. This study aims to introduce electrodes made with graphene, a new, thinner, and more flexible material that can detect smaller signals more accurately. This advancement could help surgeons identify critical brain areas with greater precision, potentially improving surgical outcomes and patient safety. Participants undergoing brain surgery, such as tumor removal, will have these new graphene electrodes used during their procedure. The electrodes will be placed on the brain's surface to monitor electrical activity and help pinpoint areas controlling essential functions like movement or speech. The study will observe how well these electrodes conform to the brain's shape and their ability to provide detailed and accurate readings. While the potential benefits include improved mapping accuracy and better protection of vital brain areas, the study will also monitor any possible risks associated with using this novel material in a surgical setting.