ABSTRACT
As an integral part of a long-term program to develop microminiature implantable transducers for chronic physiologic studies in intact animals and man, an integrated circuit force transducer has been developed. Corollary devices for measuring electrical activity and pressure have also been made, but will not be discussed in this paper. The design goals for the force transducer were as follows:
A 1-mm basic transducer span enabling study of the smooth muscle of the rabbit oviduct and other thin, small, smooth muscle structures without interference with tissue function
A size, shape, and composition suitable for transducer withdrawal by means of the lead wires permitting human implant during laparotomy
Adequate sensitivity and long-term stability, reproducible characteristics
No reaction in the tissue environment
Reasonable cost
Easy implantation, no cross-interference with multiple implants
