Cochlear Implant Electrode Guide for Robotic Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cochlear implant electrode insertion methods are manual and invasive, requiring visual observation and potentially leading to complications and longer surgery times, with a need for non-manual and robotic insertion techniques to improve efficiency and reduce risks.
Innovation Solution
A guide for inserting a cochlear implant electrode that includes a middle electrode section with structural stiffening and a guide member for facilitating insertion through a pre-drilled passage from the mastoid cortex to the cochlea scala, featuring a rigid or collapsible design, lubrication, and positioning aids to ensure accurate and efficient placement without visual observation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual insertion methods are used with visual observation, then insertion accuracy can be monitored, but surgery time increases and surgical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A pre-formed curve is created in the electrode array before insertion, and a guide member with a complementary curve is positioned in advance in the cochleostomy opening. This preliminary preparation allows the electrode to follow the predetermined path during automated insertion, eliminating the need for real-time visual monitoring while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
A guide member acts as an intermediary between the electrode array and the cochlea. The guide member with its pre-formed curve guides the electrode array along the correct insertion path, enabling accurate placement without requiring manual visual observation, thus reducing surgery time while maintaining precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual insertion with stylet is used, then electrode positioning can be controlled, but the procedure becomes more complex and invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The stylet is removed from the insertion procedure entirely. Instead, a guide member with a pre-formed curve is used to provide the necessary structural support and directional guidance during automated insertion, simplifying the overall procedure while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical manipulation by the surgeon is replaced with an automated robotic insertion system. The guide member provides the mechanical guidance structure, allowing the robotic system to insert the electrode accurately without requiring manual dexterity or visual observation.
3Ease of operation
If flexible electrode array is used, then insertion is easier, but structural support during insertion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The guide member serves as a mediator that provides the necessary structural support during insertion. The flexible electrode array is inserted through the rigid guide member, which maintains the correct trajectory and provides strength, while the electrode array retains its flexibility for conforming to the cochlear structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array is designed as a flexible structure that can conform to the cochlear anatomy. This flexibility is maintained while insertion is facilitated by the rigid guide member, which provides the necessary structural support during the insertion process itself.
4Extent of automation
If robotic insertion is implemented, then surgery time is reduced and automation is improved, but guidance and alignment become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The guide member with its pre-formed curve is positioned in advance in the cochleostomy opening, creating a predetermined insertion path. This preliminary action provides the robotic system with a clear mechanical guide to follow, ensuring precise alignment and positioning during automated insertion without requiring complex real-time control.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
An implant electrode for a cochlear implant system includes a basal electrode lead passing from an implant housing to a mastoid cortex surface for carrying one or more electrical stimulation signals from the implant housing. An apical electrode array fits through a cochleostomy opening into a cochlea scala and has multiple electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue. A middle electrode section passes through the mastoid cortex and the middle ear to the cochleostomy opening for connecting the electrode lead and the electrode array.