Compressible Grid Electrode for Minimally Invasive Brain Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods for deploying electrode arrays in epilepsy treatment require multiple invasive procedures for insertion and removal, which are costly, risky, and uncomfortable, and are prone to placement errors that can affect treatment outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for deploying a compressible grid electrode array through a small access hole, which can be expanded to its full dimensions at the target location, verified for accurate positioning, and subsequently extracted via the same hole, utilizing a substrate with an inserter and cannula configuration that includes spring elements and actuators for expansion and compression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a grid electrode array is inserted through a small burr hole, then the invasiveness of the procedure is reduced, but the electrode array cannot be inserted in its full expanded dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is divided into multiple segments or struts that can be collapsed together for insertion and then separated/expanded at the target location, enabling passage through a small burr hole while maintaining full functional dimensions when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array segments are nested within each other or within a delivery catheter in a collapsed state for insertion, then unfolded or expanded at the target site to achieve full dimensions, similar to nested dolls fitting within each other
2Measurement precision
If multiple surgical procedures are used for insertion and removal of electrode arrays, then electrode placement can be verified, but the patient experiences increased risk, cost, and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be inserted through a minimal burr hole, expanded to full dimensions for recording, verified for proper placement, and removed through the same burr hole, eliminating the need for separate surgical procedures for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode array transitions from a collapsed insertable state to an expanded functional state and back to a collapsed removable state, allowing the same device to be inserted and removed through the same small opening while providing sufficient surface area for accurate brain mapping when expanded
3Ease of operation
If the electrode array is made flexible for insertion, then it can be inserted through small holes, but it may deform or shift from the intended placement position
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is pre-formed or pre-shaped in its expanded configuration, then collapsed for insertion and re-expanded at the target location, allowing it to return to its precise intended geometry and placement position after insertion through the burr hole
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 approach minimizes the number of invasive procedures, reduces risks and discomfort, and ensures accurate electrode placement, thereby improving the effectiveness and safety of epilepsy treatment by allowing for precise mapping of brain activity without the need for additional surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
an inserter and array of electrodes configured in a first compressed state... the inserter is configured to expand from the first compressed state to a second uncompressed state
Implementation Method 2
a cannula configured to accommodate the inserter, the substrate and the array of electrodes in the first compressed state
Data Source
AI summary
A system for deploying an electrode array at a target location through a hole formed in the patient's cranium. The system includes an array of electrodes attached to a substrate and an inserter attached to the substrate and/or the array of electrodes. The inserter, substrate and array of electrodes are configured into a first compressed state and are positioned within the lumen of a cannula. Using the cannula, the system is inserted through the hole, the cannula is then removed, and the inserter is used to transition the substrate and electrode array from the first compressed state to a second uncompressed state, thereby deploying the array of electrodes at the target location.