Implantable Electrode Control via Real-Time Position Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting electrodes into the brain for deep brain stimulation and epilepsy treatment lack accuracy in real-time monitoring of electrode position and path, which can lead to instability and increased risk of side effects during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that provide real-time image information about the electrode's position and path, using external devices like EEG, MRI, SPECT, PET, and MEG to calculate optimal implantation regions and paths, preventing prohibited areas and allowing for simulation of different electrode types, thereby enhancing surgical precision and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring of electrode position and path is implemented, then surgical precision and safety are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an implantable sensor as an intermediary device that directly measures electrode position and path within the body. This sensor acts as a mediator between the electrode implantation process and the external control system, providing real-time position data without requiring complex external imaging equipment. The sensor transmits position information to an external controller, enabling precise monitoring while keeping the overall system manageable through modular architecture.
2Measurement precision
If multiple imaging modalities (EEG, MRI, SPECT, PET, MEG) are integrated for electrode control, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging modalities (EEG, MRI, SPECT, PET, MEG) into a unified control system that processes and integrates data from all these sources. By combining the strengths of each imaging modality, the system achieves comprehensive visualization of electrode position and path. The merged system correlates data from different modalities to provide a complete picture of electrode placement, improving measurement precision while managing complexity through integrated processing.
3Reliability
If real-time image information is provided during electrode implantation, then surgical safety is improved, but loss of time in data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-processing and establishing the control system architecture before electrode implantation begins. The system pre-establishes the integration framework for multiple imaging modalities and pre-configures the control algorithms. This preliminary setup enables real-time data processing during surgery without delays, as the processing infrastructure is already in place and optimized for rapid operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous feedback loops that provide real-time position information from the implantable sensor to the control system. This feedback mechanism allows immediate detection and correction of electrode placement deviations, enhancing surgical safety. The feedback system processes position data continuously and provides instantaneous guidance to the surgeon, eliminating time delays between measurement and action.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling an implanted electrode includes receiving information from an external device; calculating a first region in a body in which the electrode is to be implanted and a second region in which electrode implantation is prohibited, based on the received information; and calculating a plurality of predicted paths through which an electrode is moved based on the first region or the second region, and outputting the plurality of predicted paths.