Ultrasound neuromodulation techniques

Abstract

The subject matter of the present disclosure generally relates to techniques for neuromodulation of a tissue that include applying energy (e.g., ultrasound energy) into the tissue to cause altered activity at a synapse between a neuron and a non-neuronal cell. In one embodiment, the energy is applied to cause persistent effects as a result of repeated application of energy within a predefined treatment window.

Description

technical field [0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to neuromodulation, and more particularly to techniques for modulating physiological responses using energy applied from an energy source. Background technique [0002] Neuromodulation has been used to treat a variety of clinical conditions. For example, electrical stimulation of various parts along the spinal cord has been used to treat chronic back pain. Such treatments can be delivered by implantable devices that periodically generate electrical energy that is applied to tissue to activate certain nerve fibers, which in turn may lead to a reduction in pain sensation. In the case of spinal cord stimulation, the stimulating electrodes are usually located in the epidural space, although the pulse generator may be positioned slightly away from the electrodes, such as in the abdominal or gluteal region, but connected to the electrodes by wires. In other embodiments, deep brain stimulation can be used to stimu...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, positioning electrodes at or near target nerves is challenging

For example, such techniques may involve the surgical placement of electrodes that deliver energy

Furthermore, targeting specific tissues via neuromodulation is challenging

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