Auditory Prosthesis eABR Measurement via Integrated Electrode Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring electrically evoked Auditory Brainstem Responses (eABR) via cochlear or auditory brainstem implants are cumbersome and prone to interference from stimulating artifacts, making it difficult to accurately interpret recordings, especially in intraoperative settings where incorrect interpretations can significantly impact postoperative performance.
Innovation Solution
The method involves surgically implanting an auditory prosthesis with an electrode array, using at least one electrode for stimulation and recording, and an external or internal electrode positioned on the scalp or forehead for recording eABR, with improved forward masking cancellation techniques to reduce artifacts, allowing for more robust and accurate measurements without the need for a separate external recording system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate external recording system is used to measure eABR, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and clinical time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the stimulation and recording functions into a single integrated implantable prosthesis. The electrode array serves both to deliver electrical stimulation and to record the resulting eABR signals, eliminating the need for separate external recording systems and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array in the implantable prosthesis is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the stimulation electrode for delivering electrical pulses to the auditory nerve and the recording electrode for detecting the resulting brainstem responses. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall system
2Measurement precision
If traditional recording methods are used, then eABR can be recorded, but stimulating artifacts interfere with accurate interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the stimulating artifacts from the recorded signal through signal processing techniques. By separating the artifact component from the genuine eABR response, the method enables accurate interpretation of the brainstem responses without interference from the stimulation artifacts
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to identify and cancel stimulating artifacts. By monitoring the stimulation signal and using it as a reference to subtract the artifact component from the recorded signal, the method improves the accuracy of eABR measurement by eliminating the harmful artifact interference
3Ease of operation
If electrode placement is not optimized, then recording can be performed, but measurement stability and accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary optimization of electrode placement during the implantation surgery. The electrode array is positioned in advance to achieve optimal recording characteristics, ensuring stable and accurate eABR measurements without requiring complex adjustments during subsequent clinical procedures
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of measuring electrically evoked auditory brainstem responses of a patient or animal body includes surgically implanting an auditory prosthesis having an electrode array, the electrode array positioned either intracochlear or substantially proximate a brainstem of the body. At least one electrode is stimulated in the electrode array. Electrically evoked auditory brainstem responses resulting from said stimulation are recorded using, at least in part, an electrode in the electrode array as a negative electrode, and a positive electrode positioned substantially proximate the vertex of the head of the body.