Implantable Stimulation Lead Configuration Detection via Bio-Impedance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable medical devices face challenges in accurately identifying and configuring stimulation leads, particularly when multiple leads are present, leading to potential device malfunction and inefficiencies during replacement procedures.
Innovation Solution
The system automatically detects the configuration of stimulation leads by measuring bio-impedance between anode-cathode pairs, grouping them based on impedance values, and determining if the leads are configured for unilateral or bilateral stimulation, with the option to identify electrical defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual detection methods are used to identify lead configurations, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to potential human error and inability to accurately identify multiple leads
Solution Approach 1:
The IPG automatically detects and identifies lead configurations by measuring bio-impedance between electrode contacts without requiring manual intervention. The system self-configures by analyzing impedance values to determine lead arrangements, eliminating human error while maintaining manageable complexity through automated algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection methods with an automated electrical measurement system. By using bio-impedance measurements and computational analysis of impedance values, the system automatically identifies lead configurations that would otherwise require manual detection and visual identification.
2Measurement precision
If automated bio-impedance measurement is implemented, then lead configuration detection accuracy improves, but use of energy increases due to multiple impedance measurements between anode-cathode pairs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs impedance measurements between specific anode-cathode pairs based on a systematic approach, measuring only the necessary combinations to determine lead configuration. By using a structured measurement protocol that targets specific electrode pairs, the system achieves accurate detection while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in bio-impedance parameters to identify lead configurations. By measuring impedance values and analyzing their characteristics, the system determines lead arrangements without requiring continuous or excessive energy input, using parameter analysis to achieve detection with optimized energy use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stimulation leads are supported, then adaptability improves for treating different conditions, but device complexity increases due to difficulty in identifying and configuring multiple leads
Solution Approach 1:
The IPG automatically identifies and configures multiple stimulation leads by measuring bio-impedance between all relevant anode-cathode pairs. The system self-determines lead configurations, electrode assignments, and stimulation parameters without manual intervention, enabling support for multiple leads while maintaining manageable complexity through automated identification algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal detection system that can identify various lead configurations (unilateral, bilateral, multiple leads) using the same bio-impedance measurement approach. The system adapts its analysis based on measured impedance values to determine the specific configuration, providing multi-functionality for different therapeutic scenarios without requiring separate detection mechanisms for each lead arrangement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enhances the accuracy of lead configuration detection, reducing the risk of device malfunction and improving surgical efficiency by ensuring proper IPG configuration with formerly implanted leads.
Implementation Method 1
measuring bio-impedance between anode-cathode pairs
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally pertains to implantable stimulation systems. More specifically, the present disclosure provides systems and methods for automatically detecting the configuration of stimulation leads and optionally determining if any such leads are electrically defective. The method includes iteratively applying stimulation through anode-cathode pairs of electrode contacts disposed on one or more leads, measuring the impedance values between each respective pair, and comparing the impedance values to one or more threshold values to determine if the leads are unilateral or bilateral.