Biotelemetry

Abstract

Telemetric transmission of functional and physiological information offers many advantages in medical diagnostics and patient surveillance. The telemetric data link avoids direct connections to the recording or monitoring equipment, which are sometimes embarrassing and restraining, thus leaving the patients freely movable. They can be monitored in their natural environment and during work. Accordingly, the measurement does not influence the physiologic system under study, thus avoiding severe artifacts. This advantage is especially important in behavioral studies involving both humans and animals. Implantable telemetry systems transmit internal physiologic signals, or serve to control and program implanted devices, such as stimulators and drug infusion systems, without the need of transcutaneous wire connections which always carry the risk of infection.