Directional Lead Neuromodulation With Combined Fractionalized Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clinical support tools struggle to efficiently target multiple stimulation regions using a single lead in neuromodulation systems, making it difficult to improve symptoms or counteract side effects.
Innovation Solution
A neurostimulator system that determines fractionalizations for stimulating multiple targets using a single timing channel, combining fractionalizations to simultaneously stimulate multiple targets with a combined fractionalization, and adjusting amplitudes and pulse widths for optimal therapy delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single timing channel is used to stimulate multiple targets, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision of stimulation targeting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stimulation current into multiple fractionalized components that can be independently directed to different targets along the lead. Each target receives a specific fractional portion of the total current, enabling precise multi-target stimulation through a single timing channel. This segmentation of current pathways resolves the contradiction by maintaining device simplicity while achieving precise targeting through computational division of the stimulation signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of current distribution by implementing fractionalization algorithms that dynamically allocate current amplitude to different electrode configurations based on desired target stimulation. By modifying how current is distributed temporally and spatially within a single timing channel, the system achieves multiple target precision without adding hardware complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple targets are stimulated simultaneously using a single lead, then therapy versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated algorithms that perform the complex task of determining optimal fractionalizations for multiple targets. The system automatically calculates and adjusts current distribution across electrodes based on the desired stimulation targets, eliminating the need for manual programming of complex multi-target configurations. This automation maintains versatility while significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically changes stimulation parameters including current amplitude, pulse width, and electrode selection based on the programmed targets. The fractionalization algorithm dynamically adjusts these parameters to achieve optimal stimulation of multiple targets simultaneously, reducing the operational burden on the user while maintaining high versatility.
3Reliability
If fractionalization is used to stimulate multiple targets, then therapy efficacy is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by delivering stimulation only to the specific fractional portions of current needed for each target rather than uniformly stimulating all electrodes. This localized current delivery optimizes energy utilization by concentrating power where therapeutic effect is needed, improving therapy efficacy while minimizing unnecessary energy dissipation in non-target tissues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by applying fractionalized current to multiple targets simultaneously rather than using full current to each target sequentially or to a single target. This partial current distribution to multiple targets achieves comprehensive therapeutic coverage while reducing total energy consumption compared to intensive single-target stimulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system may include a neurostimulator and a processing system, where the neuromodulator includes a directional lead. The processing system may be configured to perform a process that includes determining at least one stimulation field model (SFM) from at least a first vector that extends from a first virtual electrode on the directional lead and a second vector that extends from a second virtual electrode on the directional lead and determining a first modulation configuration corresponding to the first vector from the first virtual electrode and determining a second modulation configuration corresponding to the second vector from the second virtual electrode. The process may further include combining the first modulation configuration and the second modulation configuration into a combined modulation configuration and delivering neuromodulation via a single timing channel using the combined modulation configuration.