Cochlear Implant Electrode Lead Scalar Translocation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting trauma and monitoring the position and insertion path of an electrode lead in cochlear implant systems are expensive, inconvenient, and expose patients to risk, and are often impractical for real-time use during insertion procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses physical computing devices to detect evoked responses at different locations along the electrode lead's insertion path, determining amplitude and phase changes to identify scalar translocation of the electrode lead within the cochlea, thereby detecting trauma and tracking the lead's position in real time without the need for expensive imaging technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If imaging technology (x-ray, fluoroscopic, CT) is used to detect trauma and monitor electrode lead position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex imaging systems (x-ray, fluoroscopic, CT) with a simpler electrical measurement system. Instead of using mechanical/optical imaging devices to track electrode lead position, the invention uses electrical impedance measurements taken by electrodes already present in the cochlea to infer position and detect scalar translocation. This substitution dramatically reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the electrode lead itself serve dual purposes: both delivering electrical stimulation and sensing its own position through impedance measurements. The electrodes implanted in the cochlea are used to measure impedance along the electrode lead, eliminating the need for separate imaging devices. This self-service approach reduces overall system complexity while providing continuous position monitoring.
2Reliability
If imaging technology is used for real-time monitoring during insertion procedures, then reliability of trauma detection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces bulky imaging equipment with a compact electrical measurement system that can be easily operated during insertion procedures. The impedance measurement system requires no separate imaging devices, making the procedure simpler to perform while maintaining reliable trauma detection through continuous electrical measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous real-time monitoring during the entire insertion procedure through ongoing impedance measurements. Unlike intermittent imaging snapshots, the electrical measurement system continuously tracks electrode lead position and detects scalar translocation as it occurs, providing uninterrupted reliability without complicating the surgical workflow.
3Loss of information
If imaging technology is used to monitor electrode lead position, then information completeness is improved, but loss of time increases due to setup and execution requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides continuous information about electrode lead position and insertion path through ongoing impedance measurements during the procedure. This eliminates the time loss associated with setting up and executing separate imaging studies, as position data is continuously available without interrupting the surgical workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs position monitoring and trauma detection as preliminary actions during the insertion procedure itself, rather than requiring post-procedure imaging studies. By detecting scalar translocation and tracking the insertion path in real-time, the system eliminates the need for additional time-consuming imaging steps after surgery.
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 provides real-time monitoring of electrode lead position and detection of trauma during cochlear implant insertion procedures, reducing patient risk and improving procedural safety and outcomes, while avoiding the costs and inconveniences associated with traditional imaging methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first evoked response to acoustic stimulation applied to a cochlear implant patient is detected by way of an electrode configuration including at least one electrode disposed on an electrode lead
Implementation Method 2
detecting a first evoked response that occurs in response to acoustic stimulation applied to a cochlear implant patient
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative method includes detecting, by way of a first electrode on an electrode lead while the first electrode is positioned at a first location in a cochlea of a patient, a first evoked response to acoustic stimulation applied to the patient; detecting, by way of a second electrode on the electrode lead while the second electrode is positioned at a second location in the cochlea, a second evoked response to the acoustic stimulation; and determining, based on an amplitude change between the first and second evoked responses, that a scalar translocation of the electrode lead from one scala of the cochlea to another scala of the cochlea has occurred.