Optimizing neuromodulation stimulation parameters using blood parameter sensing

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to implantable neuromodulation systems and methods, and in particular to systems and methods for sensing blood-based parameter changes triggered by neural stimulation and subsequently optimizing the stimulation parameters based on feedback from the sensed blood-based parameter changes. Particularly, aspects of the present invention are directed to a method that includes delivering neural stimulation to a nerve or artery / nerve plexus based on a first set of stimulation parameters, monitoring a response to the neural stimulation that includes monitoring responses of the nerve or artery / nerve plexus and blood-based parameters of the artery, modifying the first set of the stimulation parameters based on the blood-based parameters to create a second set of stimulation parameters, and delivering the neural stimulation based on the second set of the stimulation parameters.

Description

PRIOR RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 458,757, filed Feb. 14, 2017, entitled “OPTIMIZING NEUROMODULATION STIMULATION PARAMETERS USING BLOOD PARAMETER SENSING”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present disclosure relates to implantable neuromodulation systems and methods, and in particular to systems and methods for sensing blood-based parameter changes triggered by neural stimulation and subsequently optimizing the stimulation parameters based on feedback from the sensed blood-based parameter changes.BACKGROUND[0003]Normal neural activity is an intricate balance of electrical and chemical signals which can be disrupted by a variety of insults (genetic, chemical or physical trauma) to the nervous system, causing cognitive, motor and sensory impairments. Similar to the way a cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator corrects heartbeat abnormalities, neuromodulation...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a medical device that can stimulate nerves or arteries using different sets of stimulation parameters based on the response of the nerves or arteries to the stimulation. The device can also monitor blood-based parameters, such as blood flow and blood pressure, and adjust the stimulation parameters accordingly to create a more effective and safe stimulation. The device includes a controller, a pulse generator, and a lead body with electrodes and sensors for monitoring the response to the stimulation. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a more effective and safe method for stimulating nerves or arteries for medical purposes.

Problems solved by technology

Unlike the wear and tear damage (due to age and / or extreme sports) of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

While new types of medications have improved treatment options dramatically, severe rheumatoid arthritis can still cause physical disabilities.

However, since the vagus nerve is a heterogeneous bundle of nerve fibers, stimulation of the vagus nerve may cause inadvertent stimulation of other end-organs resulting in adverse side effects.

A major challenge of stimulating a nerve or artery / nerve plexus is to ensure that optimal stimulation parameters are identified that maximally control inflammation while avoiding or minimizing any influence on the functioning of peripheral organs such as blood flow via the artery.

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