Implantable Closed-Loop Stimulation for Incontinence Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical nerve stimulation approaches for incontinence treatment lack adaptability to the subject's condition, often resulting in overstimulation or understimulation, leading to inadequate control over micturition or bowel movements.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sensor and stimulator electrodes, a processor, and software that adaptively deliver electrical stimulation based on sensed parameters, such as EMG signals, to complement the subject's innate responses and prevent incontinence episodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed electrical stimulation protocol is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to subject condition deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where sensor electrodes detect physiological parameters (EMG signals, muscle contraction) and this information is fed back to the processor, which then adjusts the stimulation parameters accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to changing subject conditions while maintaining appropriate stimulation levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical stimulation parameters (intensity, duration, frequency) are made dynamic rather than fixed. The processor continuously adjusts these parameters based on real-time sensor feedback, allowing the system to transition between different stimulation protocols according to the subject's physiological state and response.
2Measurement precision
If fixed stimulation intensity is applied, then the device operation is simple, but stimulation precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensor electrodes to continuously monitor physiological responses and feeds this information back to the processor, which automatically adjusts stimulation intensity to achieve optimal precision without requiring manual intervention or complex user input.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of stimulation parameters based on its own sensor feedback, eliminating the need for user manipulation of stimulation controls while maintaining high precision in delivering appropriate stimulation levels.
3Reliability
If high stimulation intensity is used to ensure adequate control, then the control effectiveness is improved, but harmful effects (overstimulation) increase
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback loop continuously monitors the subject's response to stimulation and adjusts intensity in real-time, increasing stimulation only when needed and reducing it when the threshold is approached, thus preventing overstimulation while maintaining reliable control effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation intensity is dynamically adjusted based on real-time physiological feedback rather than maintained at a constant high level, allowing the system to provide sufficient stimulation for effective control while automatically reducing intensity to prevent harmful overstimulation effects.
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 system effectively prevents incontinence episodes by adjusting stimulation levels to match the subject's condition, enhancing control over micturition and bowel movements.
Implementation Method 1
sensing, with the sensor electrode, a parameter that is associated with a response from the individual that is intended to prevent an episode of incontinence
Implementation Method 2
providing an electrical stimulation with the stimulation electrode, that together with the response, prevents the episode of incontinence
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are devices and methods for preventing an episode of incontinence in an individual in need thereof. The devices comprise a sensor and a stimulator electrode that can be implanted into the body of the individual. Once the device is implanted in the individual, the sensor of the device senses a parameter that is associated with a response from the individual that is intended to prevent an episode of incontinence. Then, the device provides an electrical stimulation using the electrode that, together with the response, helps to prevent the episode of incontinence.