DBS Stimulation Volume Estimation and Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) technologies face challenges in predicting the volume of tissue influenced by electrode placement due to the complex, inhomogeneous, and anisotropic characteristics of brain tissue, leading to undesirable side effects and limited understanding of neural responses.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for estimating stimulation volumes and displaying models of patient anatomy to graphically identify the interaction between stimulation leadwires and anatomical regions, facilitating the selection of optimal stimulation therapies by managing and refining target volumes and stimulation settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If DBS electrode placement is performed in complex, inhomogeneous, and anisotropic brain tissue, then therapeutic stimulation can be delivered to target regions, but the volume of tissue influenced by electrode placement cannot be accurately predicted, leading to undesirable side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional imaging and electrode placement planning to three-dimensional volumetric mapping of stimulation fields. By modeling the electric field distribution in 3D space and calculating the volume of activated tissue, the system provides comprehensive spatial information about the stimulation footprint, enabling accurate prediction of both therapeutic effects and potential side effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual models and simulations of the electric field distribution and tissue activation volumes based on patient-specific anatomical data. These computational models serve as copies of the actual physical stimulation process, allowing clinicians to predict and analyze stimulation volumes before actual electrode placement, thereby avoiding the need for complex real-time measurements during surgery.
2Productivity
If traditional DBS procedures are used without volumetric analysis, then surgical procedures can be performed, but understanding of neural responses and optimization of therapeutic benefits are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where volumetric analysis data from simulated or measured stimulation fields is fed back into the treatment planning process. By quantifying the volume and distribution of activated tissue, the system provides actionable information that allows clinicians to adjust electrode placement, stimulation parameters, and target selection to optimize therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables systematic variation and analysis of multiple stimulation parameters including electrode position, orientation, amplitude, pulse width, and frequency. By calculating how changes in these parameters affect the volume and distribution of activated tissue, the system provides a quantitative basis for optimizing treatment parameters to achieve maximum therapeutic benefit with minimal adverse effects.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented system and method facilitates a cycle of generation, sharing, and refinement of volumes related to stimulation of anatomical tissue, such as brain or spinal cord stimulation. Such volumes can include target stimulation volumes, side effect volumes, and volumes of estimated activation. A computer system and method also facilitates analysis of groups of volumes, including analysis of differences and/or commonalities between different groups of volumes.