Brain Navigation Lead Positioning with Real-Time Neural Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lead positioning methods for deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgeries are prone to inaccuracies due to manual measurement and a two-stage process involving microelectrode recording and lead insertion, leading to potential deviations and increased time and cost.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an implantable lead with macro and micro contacts that performs real-time electrical signal readings, compares them with stored indications, and calculates similarity measures to automatically navigate to the optimal implantation position, potentially eliminating the need for a separate microelectrode insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement and two-stage process (microelectrode recording followed by lead insertion) are used, then lead positioning can be performed, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to potential deviations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines microelectrode recording and lead insertion into a single integrated lead that performs both functions simultaneously. The lead includes both recording electrodes for neural signal detection and stimulation electrodes for therapy delivery, eliminating the need for separate procedures and reducing positioning deviations between stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a navigation system with image guidance and real-time feedback as an intermediary between the surgeon and the lead insertion process. This system provides continuous monitoring and adjustment capabilities, ensuring the lead reaches the precise target location despite anatomical variations or surgical challenges.
2Ease of operation
If separate microelectrode insertion and lead insertion are performed, then navigation can be performed, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the navigation function into the lead itself by integrating electrodes and circuitry that enable real-time neural signal recording and processing during lead insertion. This eliminates the need for a separate microelectrode navigation phase, reducing surgical time while maintaining navigation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous neural signal recording and processing throughout the entire lead insertion process. The system continuously monitors electrophysiological parameters and provides real-time feedback, allowing the surgeon to navigate to the optimal target location without interrupting the insertion process for separate recording sessions.
3Ease of operation
If separate microelectrode insertion and lead insertion are performed, then navigation can be performed, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (recording, stimulation, navigation) into a single integrated lead system, reducing the need for multiple separate devices and procedures. This consolidation reduces overall procedural costs by eliminating redundant equipment, materials, and surgical steps while maintaining full navigation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal lead that performs multiple functions: neural signal recording, real-time navigation guidance, and electrical stimulation therapy. This multi-functional device replaces several specialized devices, reducing equipment costs and simplifying the surgical workflow.
4Productivity
If traditional lead positioning is used, then procedure can be completed, but positioning precision deteriorates due to anatomical inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback through continuous recording of electrophysiological signals during lead insertion. The system compares recorded neural signals against known target signatures and provides immediate feedback to the surgeon, allowing dynamic adjustment of lead position to achieve precise target localization despite anatomical variations or imaging inaccuracies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces reliance on mechanical stereotactic frames and pre-operative imaging alone with an electrophysiological guidance system. The system uses real-time neural signal characteristics as a biological reference framework, substituting mechanical positioning accuracy with physiological signal-based localization for greater precision.
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 reduces positioning errors, minimizes time and costs, and enhances the precision of DBS procedures by directly determining the optimal lead placement based on electrical activity correlations.
Implementation Method 1
a first electrode positioned in body tissue and configured to measure a first electrical signal from the body tissue
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A method for determining position of an electrode lead inside a body tissue, including: receiving electrical signals recorded from at least one macro electrode contact of an electrode lead positioned inside a body tissue; extracting spiking (SPK) signals from the received electrical signals; providing stored measurements or indications thereof; determining a position of the lead and/or the at least one macro electrode contact inside said body tissue based on the extracted SPK signals and the provided stored measurements or indications thereof.