DBS Stimulation Mode Transition Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) systems face challenges in customizing stimulation parameters, particularly in transitioning between anodic and cathodic modes, due to uncertainties in electrode placement and the complex electrical environment, leading to suboptimal therapeutic effects and energy management issues.
Innovation Solution
A system with a graphical user interface that allows users to configure and transition between anodic and cathodic stimulation modes, specifying parameters such as pulse width, amplitude, and duration, and visualize energy usage, enabling user-customizable transitions and apportionment of stimulation time to optimize therapeutic benefits and battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed stimulation modes are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but therapeutic effectiveness is reduced due to inability to adapt to electrode placement uncertainties and complex electrical environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic stimulation mode transitions between anodic and cathodic modes based on real-time feedback from impedance measurements and therapeutic response. The system automatically adjusts stimulation parameters and mode timing to optimize therapeutic effectiveness while adapting to changing physiological conditions and electrode-tissue interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes stimulation parameters including polarity, pulse width, amplitude, and frequency based on measured impedance values and therapeutic response. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system overcomes the limitations of fixed stimulation modes and adapts to uncertainties in electrode placement and tissue electrical properties.
2Reliability
If anodic and cathodic stimulation modes are both employed, then therapeutic benefits are enhanced through mode transitions, but energy consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic alternation between anodic and cathodic stimulation modes with optimized duty cycles. By using periodic action rather than continuous dual-mode stimulation, the system achieves therapeutic benefits while managing energy consumption through controlled transition timing and duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts stimulation parameters including pulse width, amplitude, and frequency during mode transitions to optimize energy efficiency. By changing parameters based on impedance measurements and therapeutic response, the system minimizes energy consumption while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mode transitions are made rapidly, then adaptability to changing conditions is improved, but tissue stimulation discomfort and potential harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements gradual mode transitions with intermediate stimulation phases that cushion the switch between anodic and cathodic modes. By using transition periods with reduced amplitude or interleaved pulses, the system minimizes abrupt tissue stimulation and potential discomfort while maintaining adaptability to changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically controls transition timing and duration based on real-time feedback, adjusting the speed and nature of mode transitions to balance adaptability with patient comfort. By making transitions dynamic rather than fixed, the system can slow down transitions when discomfort is detected while maintaining overall adaptability.
4Reliability
If stimulation parameters are highly customizable, then therapeutic optimization is improved, but device operation complexity and user burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated parameter adjustment and mode selection based on impedance measurements and therapeutic response feedback. The system performs self-optimization of stimulation parameters, reducing the need for manual user configuration while maintaining high levels of therapeutic optimization through closed-loop control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from impedance measurements and therapeutic response to automatically adjust stimulation parameters. By implementing feedback-driven parameter optimization, the system achieves therapeutic customization without requiring complex manual user input or configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Interfaces are disclosed for configuring the parameters of anodic and cathodic stimulation that is provided by an implantable medical device. The interfaces enable the specification of transitions between anodic and cathodic modes of stimulation and continuous interleaving of anodic and cathodic modes of stimulation. Transitions between anodic and cathodic modes of stimulation can include linear or user-customized adjustments of stimulation parameters of the anodic and cathodic modes during a transition period. Continuous interleaving of anodic and cathodic modes of stimulation can include repeating, continuous adjustments of stimulation parameters of the anodic and cathodic modes according to user-customized parameters and user-defined time apportionments. Interfaces additionally provide information regarding the relative energy usages of the different stimulation modes and visualizations of the effects of adjustments of the stimulation modes on energy usage.