Automated Electrode Array Characterization via Post-Implant Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern neurostimulation systems face challenges in accurately characterizing implanted electrode arrays due to complexities and uncertainties in electrode array configurations and implant locations, leading to difficulties in adjusting stimulation parameters effectively over time as leads migrate or patient posture changes.
Innovation Solution
The use of post-implant imaging and analysis techniques to identify physical characteristics of electrode arrays, automatically generating adjustments to stimulation parameters such as amplitude, pulse width, and electrode combinations, and detecting changes in lead positioning to maintain therapeutic efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual characterization methods are used to identify electrode array configurations and implant locations, then clinician control and decision-making are maintained, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors due to complexity and uncertainty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and characterization methods with automated image processing algorithms. The system uses digital imaging and computer-based analysis to automatically identify electrode array configurations, count electrodes, determine spacing, and locate implant positions, substituting clinician manual work with automated computational analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-characterization of the electrode array by the imaging system itself. The automated algorithms independently analyze the images, extract relevant parameters, and generate characterization results without requiring continuous clinician intervention or manual measurement, allowing the system to characterize itself.
2Measurement precision
If detailed manual analysis of electrode arrays is performed, then accurate characterization is achieved, but the complexity of modern electrode arrays makes this process difficult and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies automated image processing algorithms to replace manual analysis of complex electrode array configurations. The computer-based system automatically identifies electrode patterns, counts electrodes, measures spacing, and determines array types, handling the complexity that would be difficult for clinicians to assess manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary layer of automated image processing software between the complex electrode array and the clinician. This intermediary automatically interprets the complex configurations, extracts meaningful parameters, and presents simplified characterization results, reducing the cognitive burden on clinicians.
3Reliability
If stimulation parameters are not adjusted in response to lead migration or posture changes, then device simplicity is maintained, but therapeutic efficacy deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system periodically re-images the electrode array, detects changes in position or configuration through image comparison, and automatically adjusts stimulation parameters in response to detected migrations or posture changes, maintaining therapeutic efficacy over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static parameter settings to dynamic parameter adjustment. The automated system continuously monitors electrode array position through imaging and adapts stimulation parameters in real-time based on detected changes, allowing the system to respond dynamically to lead migration or patient posture changes.
Data Source
AI summary
In general, the disclosure is related to characterization of implanted electrical stimulation electrode arrays using post-implant imaging. The electrode arrays may be carried by implanted leads. Characterization of implanted electrode arrays may include identification of the type or types of leads implanted within a patient and/or determination of positions of the implanted leads or electrodes carried by the leads relative to one another or relative to anatomical structures within the patient. In addition, the disclosure relates to techniques for specifying or modifying patient therapy parameters based on the characterization of the implanted electrode arrays.