Skull implanted electrode assembly for brain stimulation

Abstract

A skull-implantable electrode assembly for delivering pulses of electric current to a patient's brain, comprising an electrode housed in an insulated conduit and threaded through an electrically-conductive cannulated skull screw. Details of the exterior construction are discussed, as well as electrode arrangements and methods of treating a medical ailment of a patient.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONTechnical Field[0001]The present invention relates to an electronics assembly comprising an electrically-conductive cannulated screw configured to traverse a patient's skull to stimulate the patient's brain with an electric current, and methods of use.Description of the Related Art[0002]The “background” description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description which may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly or impliedly admitted as prior art against the present invention.[0003]Brain stimulation therapies involve activating or touching the brain directly with electricity, magnets, or implants to treat depression and other disorders. Electroconvulsive therapy is the most researched stimulation therapy and has the longest history of use. Othe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0052]In another embodiment, the implantable electrode assembly also has a battery and a computer chip, and the exte

Problems solved by technology

First developed in 1938, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for years had a poor reputation with many negative depictions in popular culture.

It also may be used in life-threatening circumstances, such as when a patient is unable to move or respond to the outside world (e.g., catatonia), is suicidal, or is malnourished as a result of severe depression.

Through the electrodes, an electric current passes through the brain, causing a seizure that lasts generally less than one minute.

The most common side effects associated with ECT are headache, upset stomach, and muscle aches.

Some people may experience memory problems, especially of memories around the time of the treatment.

People may also have trouble remembering information learned shortly after the procedure, but this difficulty usually disappears over the days and weeks following the end of an ECT course.

It is possible that a person may have gaps in memory over the weeks during which he or she receives treatment.

Research has found that memory problems seem to be more associated with the traditional type of ECT called bilateral ECT, in which the electrodes are placed on both sides of the head.

Using brain scans, scientists found that the device affected areas of the brain that are also involved in mood regulation.

Despite FDA approval, VNS remains a controversial treatment for depression because results of studies testing its effectiveness in treating major d

Images