ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of the field of neuromodulation, with an emphasis on electronics in medicine. It describes the translational continuum from basic research to the application of neural implants to benefit human lives. Neuromodulation involves contributions from basic science, applied science, technology, and medical practitioners. It includes academia, industry, and collaborations between them. It relies on funding from the government, foundations, philanthropies, and investment from private industry. It necessitates governmental oversight of device efficacy and patient safety. Although neuromodulation, at present, is primarily used for otherwise treatment-resistant disorders, it has advantages over options such as medications and permanent ablative procedures in surgery. The term medical device has different meanings depending on context. Legally, medical devices are defined by the governing regulatory body. In the United States, medical devices are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH).
