Brain Electrode Implantation Site Detection Using HFS-Evoked Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for identifying implantation sites for brain electrode placement are time-consuming and often result in suboptimal electrode positioning, lacking accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing multi-contact electrodes that apply High Frequency Stimulation (HFS) to induce High Frequency Oscillations (HFO) and Evoked Compound Activity (ECA), measuring these responses to determine optimal electrode implantation sites by comparing them against predetermined thresholds, and adjusting stimulation frequencies based on individual brain responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current trial and error systems are used for identifying implantation sites, then the process can be operated with simple equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming and results in suboptimal electrode positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies high frequency stimulation and measures the resulting high frequency oscillations and evoked compound activity as feedback signals. These physiological responses provide real-time information about electrode proximity to the target structure, enabling accurate positioning without time-consuming trial and error attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical trial-and-error positioning with an electrophysiological detection system. Instead of physically moving electrodes and observing mechanical outcomes, the system uses electrical stimulation and measures electrical responses (HFO and ECA) to determine optimal placement, significantly reducing time and improving precision.
2Reliability
If trial and error method is used for electrode placement, then the equipment and procedure remain simple, but the implantation sites are suboptimal and therapeutic effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces physiological intermediaries (high frequency oscillations and evoked compound activity) as mediators between the electrode and target structure. These biological signals serve as intermediate indicators that reveal whether the electrode is correctly positioned near the target, providing reliable therapeutic guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
By measuring HFO and ECA responses to stimulation, the system creates a feedback loop that confirms proper electrode placement. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable therapeutic effectiveness by verifying that electrodes are positioned optimally before final implantation.
3Measurement precision
If high frequency stimulation is applied to measure HFO and ECA responses, then precise identification of implantation sites is achieved, but energy consumption and measurement complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies high frequency stimulation at controlled levels that are sufficient to evoke measurable physiological responses but not excessive. By using partial action (brief stimulation pulses) rather than continuous high-energy stimulation, the system achieves precise measurement while minimizing energy consumption.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of locating an implantation site in the brain includes inserting a plurality of multi-contact electrodes into a region of a target structure in an individual's brain. High Frequency Stimulation (HFS) is applied to a contact of a multi-contact electrode of the plurality of multi-contact electrodes. High Frequency Oscillations (HFO) evoked in the region of the target structure by the HFS are measured. Evoked Compound Activity (ECA) evoked in the region of the target structure by the HFS is measured. It is determined if at least one of the HFO and the ECA is above a predetermined threshold. If at least one of the HFO and the ECA is above the predetermined threshold, a location of the contact of the multi-contact electrode is identified as a site for electrode implantation in the individual's brain.