Cochlear Electrode Insertion Tool Anti-Twist Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cochlear implantation techniques face challenges in accurately inserting and positioning electrode arrays within the cochlea, particularly in maintaining a straight configuration and preventing twisting, which can affect the orientation and efficiency of electrical stimulation.
Innovation Solution
The development of a cochlear electrode array insertion tool featuring an insertion guide tube with an anti-twist section and an acoustic stimulation generator, which helps maintain the electrode array in a straight configuration and provides acoustic stimulation during insertion to facilitate precise placement and reduce stress on the array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional insertion techniques are used, then the insertion process is simple, but the electrode array twists and loses proper orientation
Solution Approach 1:
An insertion guide tube is introduced as an intermediary device to facilitate electrode array insertion. The guide tube includes an anti-twist section with flat surfaces that prevent rotation of the electrode array during insertion, ensuring proper orientation while maintaining a relatively simple overall tool structure
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array is pre-curved to match the cochlear anatomy before insertion. The anti-twist section is pre-configured with flat surfaces at specific orientations, allowing the electrode array to be inserted in the correct orientation without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during the procedure
2Ease of operation
If acoustic stimulation is added to the insertion tool, then electrode array insertion is facilitated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion guide tube is designed to perform multiple functions: it guides the electrode array during insertion, prevents twisting through its anti-twist section, and provides acoustic stimulation through an integrated transducer. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single integrated component rather than requiring separate devices for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic stimulation transducer is integrated into the insertion guide tube structure, combining the mechanical guidance function and acoustic stimulation function in one device. This allows simultaneous performance of both functions during the insertion procedure without requiring multiple separate tools
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
This solution enables precise and stress-free insertion of the electrode array, ensuring optimal positioning and reducing power consumption by placing electrode contacts in the perimodiolar position, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of electrical stimulation and improving hearing perception.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic stimulation generator configured to produce acoustic waves
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode array insertion tool, including an assembly configured to provide direct array insertion functionality and ancillary array insertion functionality to a user thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool includes an extra-cochlea bone conduction actuator system, and the ancillary array insertion functionality is output of vibrations directly to the cochlea by the system.