Share thisHigh quality telemetry can be a huge advantage to one’s research.
Many people are unfamiliar with the use of telemetry in biomedical research; their knowledge ranging from wishing there was a way to remotely monitor dozens of subjects at once to having seen a telemetry system once in someone’s lab. But those who have had the pleasure of working with animal subjects using telemetry know that high-quality telemetry can be a huge advantage to one’s research. The ability to remotely monitor conscious, freely moving subjects over an extended period of time is invaluable, particularly if you want to avoid bias in trial data that could be created by human presence, or if you are dealing with certain agents that require you to minimize staff exposure to infected animals.
Deciding to incorporate telemetry into your protocols is only the first step; one that may raise many questions: How do you want to use the system? Where can you go for information and assistance? Who has done this before? What systems are commercially available already, and which one is the best fit for the particular work you will be doing?
“ Telemetry” can range from tiny, disposable sensors that will transmit temperature readings, to sophisticated, large-animal implants that can monitor complex physiological signals like left ventricular pressure, intrathoracic pressure, ECG, and other bio-potential signals. Sensor/implant life can range from a few days to five years, transmission range from a few centimeters to 10 meters away, and some implants monitor continuously while others provide sporadic monitoring. The best fit for you will be guided by your studies; there is no “one size fits all” telemetry system.
Here are some questions to ask and factors to keep in mind while planning a telemetry suite.
System Costs
What is your budget? Has your institution imposed one on you, do you have a blank check, or do you have to put together a proposal?
Compare system entry costs with day-to-day operating costs and benefits. Consider the long term. Which system will give you the best break on animal replacement costs, recurring animal and system management costs, and so on? What about data integrity and signal fidelity? How much of the transmitted data is clean and can be easily read (by hand or by machine)? Modifications of equipment or repeating a trial because of lost data can be hidden costs. If you decide to change investigation models, how much of your existing equipment can be used in the new study and how much will need to be replaced? Will your proposed system grow with you in the most cost-effective way?