Interleaved Burst and Tonic Stimulation for Complex Neurological Disorders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neuromodulation systems using only tonic electrical stimulation are inadequate in treating neurological disorders with complex firing patterns, such as tinnitus, which often require modulation of both tonic and burst firing modes to effectively alleviate symptoms.
Innovation Solution
A method for defining a stimulation program that combines burst and tonic stimulation, allowing for the selection and modification of parameters to create an interleaved pattern of both types of stimulation for delivery to neuronal tissue, using a user interface that adjusts parameters to optimize treatment protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If only tonic electrical stimulation is used in conventional neuromodulation systems, then the system structure remains simple and easy to operate, but the system cannot effectively treat neurological disorders with complex firing patterns such as tinnitus that require modulation of both tonic and burst firing modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines burst stimulation and tonic stimulation into a single stimulation system, allowing both stimulation modes to be delivered through the same implantable pulse generator and electrode array. This merging approach enables the system to treat complex neurological disorders requiring both firing modes while avoiding the need for separate stimulation systems, thus improving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The implantable pulse generator is designed with multi-functionality to deliver both burst and tonic stimulation modes through a single device. The system can switch between and combine different stimulation patterns (burst, tonic, or interleaved sequences) using the same hardware components, making the device universally applicable to various neurological conditions with different firing pattern requirements
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple stimulation parameters for burst and tonic stimulation are manually configured separately, then precise control over stimulation patterns is achieved, but the programming process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides pre-configured stimulation programs and templates that define common burst and tonic stimulation patterns. These pre-programmed sequences include typical parameter settings for various neurological conditions, allowing clinicians to start with established protocols and make minor adjustments rather than configuring all parameters from scratch, thus reducing programming time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The programming interface allows dynamic adjustment of stimulation parameters where changing one parameter automatically adjusts related parameters to maintain optimal stimulation patterns. The system dynamically links parameters between burst and tonic modes, so that modifications in burst configuration automatically update corresponding tonic parameters, reducing the manual effort required while preserving precise control
3Ease of operation
If a single screen user interface integrates both burst and tonic stimulation controls, then ease of operation is improved, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single screen user interface is segmented into distinct control sections for burst stimulation parameters and tonic stimulation parameters. Each section is visually separated and organized with its own set of controls, allowing users to navigate and adjust parameters systematically without being overwhelmed by the overall complexity. This segmentation maintains ease of operation by providing clear organization while integrating both stimulation modes in one interface
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface employs intermediary elements such as master control switches and parameter linkage mechanisms that coordinate between burst and tonic stimulation controls. These intermediaries allow users to make high-level adjustments that automatically propagate to multiple parameter sets, simplifying the user experience while managing the underlying interface complexity through automated coordination
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method for defining a stimulation program for electrical stimulation of a patient, the method comprising: providing a single screen user interface that comprises a first plurality of controls and a second plurality of controls, the first plurality of controls allowing selection of multiple stimulation parameters for a plurality of stimulation sets, the second plurality of controls allowing selection of multiple stimulation parameters defining burst stimulation and tonic stimulation; receiving user input in one or more of the second plurality of controls; and automatically modifying parameters for one or more stimulation sets in response to receiving the user input in one or more of the second plurality of controls and modifying values displayed in one or more controls of the first plurality of controls according to the modified parameters, the modified parameters reflecting a stimulation program that includes an interleaved pattern of burst stimulation and tonic stimulation for delivery to the patient.