Electrode Fixation Plate with Occluding Cover for Stable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Less invasive surgical procedures for securing electrodes, such as deep brain stimulator electrodes, face challenges in maintaining effective electrode positioning and stability within the anatomy, limiting the duration and effectiveness of electrical stimulation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a base ring, first and second plates, and a cover that securely occludes the electrode lead to the anatomy, allowing for temporary or long-term fixation of electrodes, enabling effective monitoring and adjustment of electrode placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a less invasive surgical procedure is performed to secure an electrode, then the incision size and tissue damage are reduced, but the visualization and access to the anatomy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary fixation system comprising a base ring, plate, and cover assembly that mediates between the minimally invasive access requirement and the need for adequate visualization. The base ring is secured to the anatomy via small bone anchors, the plate provides a working platform, and the cover can be removed to create a sterile tunnel, thereby enabling both minimal tissue damage and adequate surgical access through the same system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a less invasive surgical procedure is performed to secure an electrode, then the incision size is reduced, but the access with instruments to the anatomy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is segmented into multiple functional components: a base ring for anatomical attachment, a removable plate for instrument access, and a cover for creating a sterile tunnel. This segmentation allows the system to provide minimal incision size through the base ring and covers, while the removable plate component can be taken away to grant full instrument access to the anatomy, resolving the contradiction between small incision and ease of operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the electrode is secured permanently to the anatomy, then the electrode positioning stability is improved, but the ability to monitor and adjust electrode placement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic adjustable system. The plate can be positioned in different locations on the anatomy, and the cover can be removed or positioned to allow instrument access. This dynamic design enables the electrode to be securely fixed yet easily adjustable and monitorable, as the cover removal creates a sterile tunnel that permits surgical access for monitoring and adjustment procedures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the electrode lead is occluded to secure it to the anatomy, then the electrode fixation is improved, but the ability to reposition or remove the electrode is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base ring is preliminarily secured to the anatomy using bone anchors before the plate and cover are attached. This preliminary fixation creates a stable foundation that allows the electrode lead to be occluded and secured firmly to the anatomy. The removable plate and cover components are then added on top, providing the necessary fixation while maintaining the ability to reposition or remove the electrode through the sterile tunnel created by cover removal, thus resolving the contradiction between secure fixation and repositioning capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for securing at least one electrode to an anatomy is provided. The system can include a first plate, which can include at least one first passage. The at least one first passage can be configured to receive a lead of the at least one electrode. The system can also include a second plate configured to move relative to the first plate. The movement of the second plate relative to the first plate can couple the second plate to the first plate such that the second plate at least partially occludes the at least one passage of the first plate to secure the lead of the at least one electrode to the anatomy.