DBS Lead Targeting via Combined Sensing and Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deep brain stimulation (DBS) techniques face challenges in determining the appropriate number and intensity of electrical contacts for effective therapy, as relying solely on sensing information does not allow for accurate determination of the spatial distribution of oscillation sources, leading to potential brain tissue damage and increased risk of hemorrhage from multiple lead tracks.
Innovation Solution
A method that combines sensing and stimulation to map the spatial extent of oscillation sources within the brain, using a single lead to deliver electrical stimulation at varying intensities and positions, allowing for the definition of therapy targets based on sensed electrical signals before and after stimulation, thereby selecting optimal electrodes and stimulation parameters for effective therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple leads are used to accurately map spatial distribution of oscillation sources, then measurement precision is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to brain tissue damage and hemorrhage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single lead perform multiple functions: both sensing electrical signals and delivering electrical stimulation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate leads, thereby reducing brain tissue damage and hemorrhage risk while maintaining the capability to accurately map spatial distribution of oscillation sources through combined sensing-stimulation protocols
2Device complexity
If sensing information alone is used to determine therapy parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inaccurate therapy target definition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where electrical stimulation is delivered and the resulting changes in electrical signals are sensed and used to refine the therapy target definition. This iterative sensing-stimulation-sensing process improves therapy target accuracy without requiring overly complex pre-programming systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary sensing to identify candidate therapy targets, then uses preliminary stimulation to refine the target definition based on signal changes. This staged approach allows accurate therapy target definition while keeping the overall system manageable in complexity
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 reduces the risk of brain tissue damage by using a single lead, improves treatment efficacy by accurately mapping and targeting oscillation sources, and enhances the precision of electrical stimulation therapy in managing neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease.
Implementation Method 1
sensing electrical signals at a plurality of positions within a brain
Implementation Method 2
delivering electrical stimulation at the plurality of positions within the brain
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a system may include a plurality of electrodes, electrical stimulation circuitry, and a controller. The controller may be configured to select one or more parameters of therapy to be delivered to a brain of a patient and to control the electrical stimulation circuitry to deliver the therapy to the brain of the patient based on the selected parameters and via a first one or more electrodes of the plurality of electrodes. The parameters may be defined based on a first plurality of electrical signals sensed at a plurality of different positions within the brain of the patient when electrical stimulation is not delivered at each of the positions and a second plurality of electrical signals sensed at each of the plurality of different positions within the brain of the patient in response to electrical stimulation delivered at each of the positions at a plurality of different intensities.