Targeted Brain Infusion Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) face challenges in delivering therapeutic substances effectively to the brain due to limitations in targeting specific regions and controlling agent concentration, leading to side effects and inadequate treatment efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A method involving magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (MR-DTI) to plan and execute the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents within the brain, using calculated diffusion tensors and agent distribution models to ensure precise concentration and distribution in the target region, aided by navigation systems and computer simulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If systemic administration of neurotropic growth factors is used, then broad coverage is achieved, but side effects increase and control of specific concentration in target region is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the brain into specific target regions (e.g., motor cortex, brainstem) and uses separate catheter delivery paths to reach each region. This segmentation allows independent control of agent concentration in each target area, enabling high local concentration where needed while avoiding systemic distribution and its associated side effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements local quality by delivering therapeutic agents directly to specific brain regions through stereotactically positioned catheters. This allows the therapeutic agent to be concentrated precisely where needed (e.g., in the motor cortex for ALS patients with cortical involvement) while maintaining low or zero concentration in other brain regions, thereby maximizing efficacy and minimizing side effects.
2Measurement precision
If targeted delivery to specific brain regions is implemented, then treatment precision is improved, but device complexity and procedural difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal stereotactic frame and navigation system that can be used across different patients and target regions. The frame provides a consistent reference coordinate system, while the navigation software can plan delivery paths to any brain region. This multi-functional approach reduces the need for patient-specific custom devices, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high targeting precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses an intermediary navigation system that bridges the gap between imaging data and physical catheter placement. The system integrates MRI/CT scans with real-time catheter positioning, providing visual guidance and feedback to operators. This intermediary layer simplifies the complex task of precise targeting by providing step-by-step guidance, reducing the need for highly specialized operator skills while maintaining accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple catheters are used for different target regions, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but procedural time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing comprehensive imaging and treatment planning before the actual catheter insertion procedure. Treatment plans are developed in advance, showing optimal catheter trajectories, insertion points, and target coordinates for all required brain regions. This pre-planning allows multiple catheters to be positioned efficiently during the procedure, reducing actual procedural time despite the need for comprehensive multi-region coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple catheter delivery procedures into a single integrated session. The stereotactic frame remains in place throughout, allowing sequential insertion of multiple catheters targeting different brain regions (e.g., motor cortex, brainstem, cerebellum) without requiring separate procedures. This combining approach achieves comprehensive coverage of multiple target regions while minimizing total procedural time compared to separate sessions.
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 approach allows for effective and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents directly to the brain, enhancing treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects by ensuring precise agent placement and concentration, thereby improving ALS management.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (MR-DTI) to plan and execute the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents within the brain
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for treating Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) by delivery of an agent within the brain. At least one image of a target region is acquired, and at least one magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (MR-DTI) scan of the target region is acquired. A diffusion tensor is calculated from the at least one MR-DTI scan, and at least one of an agent distribution and an agent concentration from the images and the calculated diffusion tensor is calculated. Using at least one of the calculated diffusion tensor, the images, the calculated agent distribution, and the calculated agent concentration, the placement of a delivery instrument is planned to deliver the agent to the target region to achieve a desired agent concentration and/or agent distribution within the target region.