Medical Electrode Lead With Embedded Memory Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying and recording medical electrode leads connected to an implantable pulse generator are prone to errors due to manual recording processes, leading to confusion about lead positions and characteristics, which can result in incorrect stimulation programming.
Innovation Solution
An electrically identifiable medical electrode lead with a memory circuit embedded in the lead extension, allowing for automatic identification by generating a voltage difference between contacts and reading an identification code, eliminating the need for manual entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual recording methods are used to document lead information, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the accuracy and reliability of lead identification deteriorates due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The lead extension performs self-identification by containing an identification code that is automatically read by the pulse generator. The system eliminates the need for manual recording by having the lead itself provide its identification information through electrical signals, thereby improving reliability without requiring complex external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical recording process with an electrical identification system. Instead of manually writing lead information into medical records or programming devices, the system uses electrical signals to automatically transfer lead identification data from the lead extension to the pulse generator, reducing human error and improving accuracy.
2Productivity
If manual assignment of leads to IPG headers is performed, then the process requires no additional equipment, but the speed and efficiency of lead identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The identification code is pre-programmed into the lead extension during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the lead to be automatically identified by the pulse generator immediately upon connection, eliminating the need for manual recording during or after the implantation procedure and significantly improving identification speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead extension automatically provides its identification information to the pulse generator through electrical signals without requiring manual intervention. The system performs self-identification, thereby increasing productivity by eliminating time-consuming manual assignment processes.
3Reliability
If manual recording of lead positions and characteristics is performed, then the process is straightforward and requires minimal training, but the reliability of stimulation programming deteriorates due to potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The pulse generator receives automatic feedback information about the lead's identification code and position through electrical signals. This feedback mechanism ensures that the stimulation programming is based on accurate, automatically verified lead information rather than potentially erroneous manual recordings, thereby improving programming accuracy while maintaining ease of operation through automated processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides accurate, quick, and reliable identification of leads connected to an IPG, reducing errors in stimulation programming and ensuring precise treatment protocols.
Implementation Method 1
powering the at least two contacts that are in electrical communication with the memory circuit including electrically stimulating the at least two contacts to generate a voltage difference between the at least two contacts
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrically identifiable medical electrode lead. The lead includes a flexible lead body having a distal end and a connector end. The lead also includes a plurality of electrodes disposed near the distal end of the flexible lead body. The lead further includes a connector disposed at the connector end of the flexible lead body, the connector including a plurality of contacts. The lead additionally includes a plurality of conductors supported by and passing through the flexible lead body, the plurality of conductors including electrical conductors that provide paths for electrical current from the connector to the plurality of electrodes. Finally, the lead includes a memory circuit supported by the flexible lead body and being in electrical communication with a contact of the plurality of contacts in the connector.