A Microprocessor-Based Multi-Channel Muscle Stimulator For Skeletal Muscle Cardiac Assist

Describes a portable, multichannel skeletal muscle stimulator developed for use in research in skeletal muscle cardiac assist (SMCA). The primary features of the stimulator are that it allows selective stimulation through multiple nerve-cuff electrodes and that arbitrary voltage patterns can be delivered to each electrode. The electrodes are electrically isolated from one another to effect regional (selective) stimulation. Selective stimulation offers greater control over the spatial pattern of muscle stimulation and may allow for increased muscle efficiency during skeletal muscle cardiac assist