Cannulated Skull Screw Electrode Assembly for Brain Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brain stimulation therapies, such as electroconvulsive therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, deep brain stimulation, and transcranial direct current stimulation, face limitations in efficacy and side effects, particularly regarding memory loss and invasiveness, and there is a need for a more efficient and less invasive method to stimulate the brain for treating various neurological disorders.
Innovation Solution
An implantable electrode assembly comprising an electrically-conductive cannulated skull screw with a conductor and an electronics module that forms multiple electrical connections with the brain tissue, capable of generating pulses of current with adjustable parameters, and optionally includes a photovoltaic power supply and wireless transceiver for remote programming and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ECT electrodes are placed on the head, then brain stimulation is achieved, but the procedure requires general anesthesia and muscle relaxants causing patient discomfort and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable electrode assembly allows the patient's own body to serve as the return path for electrical current through the skull, eliminating the need for external electrodes and associated anesthesia. The system uses the skull itself as part of the electrical circuit, with the electrode penetrating through the skull to contact brain tissue directly while using the opposite side of the skull as the return contact point.
2Reliability
If deep brain stimulation electrodes are implanted, then targeted brain stimulation is achieved, but the procedure becomes highly invasive requiring brain surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a penetrating electrode portion that contacts brain tissue, a skull-penetrating shaft, and a fixation mechanism. This segmentation allows the electrode to be inserted through a minimally invasive approach rather than requiring complex open brain surgery, while still achieving targeted stimulation of specific brain regions.
3Reliability
If multiple electrical connections are formed with brain tissue, then treatment efficacy is improved, but the risk of side effects such as memory loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is designed to form electrical connections at specific localized positions within the brain rather than diffuse widespread connections. By concentrating the electrical contact at precise locations through the penetrating electrode design, the system achieves effective targeted stimulation while minimizing involvement of adjacent brain regions responsible for memory and other critical functions, thereby reducing side effects.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If implantable electrode assembly is used, then less invasive treatment is achieved, but the device complexity and implantation procedure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: the electrode shaft serves both as the insertion tool and the electrical conductor, the fixation mechanism is integrated into the electrode structure itself, and the electrode contacts are built-in rather than requiring separate attachment steps. This consolidation simplifies the overall implantation procedure compared to multi-component systems while maintaining the less invasive benefit.
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
The implantable electrode assembly provides a less invasive means to stimulate the brain effectively for treating a range of neurological conditions, with adjustable pulse parameters and remote monitoring capabilities, potentially reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The implantable electrode assembly also has a photovoltaic power supply
Data Source
AI summary
A skull-implantable electrode assembly for delivering pulses of electric current to a patient's brain, comprising a conductor housed in an insulated conduit and threaded through an electrically-conductive cannulated skull screw. Details of the exterior construction are discussed, as well as electrode arrangements and methods of treating a medical ailment of a patient.