Visualizing Cathodic and Anodic Volumes of Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable electrical stimulation systems lack effective visualization and programming tools to precisely determine and modify stimulation parameters for cathodic and anodic activations, leading to inaccurate tissue activation and potential unnecessary stimulation of non-target tissues.
Innovation Solution
A system with a processor that estimates and displays graphical representations of cathodic and anodic volumes of activation (VOA) and anatomical element activations, allowing for modification of stimulation parameters and real-time programming of the implantable pulse generator to optimize electrical stimulation delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional electrical stimulation programming methods are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the precision of tissue activation control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual models (copies) of the patient's anatomy and stimulation fields on the display device. These digital twins allow clinicians to visualize and adjust stimulation parameters without directly manipulating the actual implant, enabling precise tissue activation control through graphical interfaces while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing system acts as an intermediary between the clinician and the implantable stimulator. It receives programming inputs, computes the resulting stimulation volumes and tissue activations, and presents visual feedback before applying parameters to the actual device, thereby bridging the gap between simple operation and precise control.
2Measurement precision
If stimulation parameters are adjusted without visualization tools, then the programming process is quick, but the accuracy of targeting specific tissues is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations and visualizations of stimulation volumes and tissue activations before final parameter application. By pre-computing and displaying the effects of different parameter settings, clinicians can make informed adjustments without repeated trial-and-error programming, ultimately saving time while improving targeting accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device provides real-time visual feedback showing which tissues will be activated by current stimulation parameters. This feedback loop allows clinicians to immediately see the impact of parameter changes on tissue activation patterns, enabling precise targeting while minimizing iterative adjustments and programming time.
3Reliability
If comprehensive visualization of stimulation volumes is implemented, then tissue activation accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing system performs multiple functions within a single integrated platform: it calculates stimulation volumes, visualizes tissue activations, computes anatomical element engagements, and manages programming parameters. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into one system rather than requiring separate tools, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual, trial-and-error programming methods with automated computational models and graphical visualizations. The processing system automatically computes stimulation volumes and tissue activations based on input parameters, substituting complex manual calculations and adjustments with algorithm-driven precision, thereby enhancing reliability while managing complexity through software automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems can facilitate visualizing cathodic and anodic stimulation separately. Alternately, the methods and systems may separately visualize stimulation of different neural elements, such as nerve fibers and neural cells. These methods and systems can further facilitate programming an electrical stimulation system for stimulating patient tissue.