Automated Electrode Selection via Neurotransmitter Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) procedures face challenges in efficiently selecting optimal electrode combinations and stimulation parameters, particularly for conditions like depression, where manual trial and error methods are time-consuming and patient feedback decreases over prolonged trial stimulation periods.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising pulse generating circuitry, multiple electrodes, electrochemical sensors, and a controller that automatically applies stimulation using various electrode combinations and parameters, measuring neurotransmitter levels to determine the most effective settings for neural tissue stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual trial and error methods are used to select electrode combinations, then the clinician can evaluate stimulation effects, but the procedural time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through electrochemical sensors that measure neurotransmitter levels (dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine) in response to stimulation. This objective physiological feedback replaces subjective clinical evaluation, enabling automated identification of optimal electrode combinations based on measurable neural responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of trial stimulation with automated electrical stimulation and electrochemical measurement. The controller automatically applies stimulation across multiple electrode combinations while sensors simultaneously measure neurotransmitter release, substituting clinician manual testing with an automated bioelectrical system.
2Reliability
If prolonged trial stimulation is conducted to identify optimal parameters, then stimulation effectiveness can be determined, but patient feedback decreases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses objective physiological feedback from electrochemical sensors to continuously monitor stimulation effectiveness. Neurotransmitter level measurements provide real-time data on stimulation impact, eliminating the need for prolonged subjective patient feedback and maintaining consistent measurement quality throughout the evaluation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the neural tissue to self-report its response to stimulation through endogenous neurotransmitter release. The electrochemical sensors detect these natural neural signals, allowing the brain to essentially speak for itself without requiring continuous external evaluation or patient subjectivity over extended periods.
3Measurement precision
If multiple electrode combinations are tested manually, then optimal stimulation can be identified, but the time required for parameter refinement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs continuous automated testing of multiple electrode combinations without interruption. The controller systematically varies stimulation parameters across different electrodes while sensors continuously measure neurotransmitter responses, maintaining uninterrupted data collection to rapidly identify optimal combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual parameter refinement with automated electrical control and electrochemical measurement. The controller automatically adjusts stimulation parameters across numerous electrode combinations while sensors simultaneously capture neural responses, substituting manual clinician testing with high-speed automated bioelectrical measurement.
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 system enables efficient selection of electrode combinations and stimulation parameters, reducing procedural time and allowing for more effective treatment by providing data-driven optimization of neurotransmitter levels, thereby improving the efficacy and efficiency of DBS therapy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electrochemical sensor for sensing levels of one or several neurotransmitters
Implementation Method 2
delivery of electrical pulses into one or several specific sites within the brain of a patient to treat various neurological disorders
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a system for electrically stimulating neural tissue of a patient and for determining neurotransmitter release in response to stimulation, the system comprises: pulse generating circuitry for generating electrical pulses; at least one electrical lead for conducting electrical pulses generated by the pulse generating circuitry to neural tissue, the at least one electrical lead comprising a plurality of electrodes; at least one electrochemical sensor for sensing an extracellular level of one or several neurotransmitters; circuitry for sampling a signal from the at least one electrochemical sensor; a controller for automatically applying stimulation to neural tissue using a plurality of electrode combinations, the controller generating data related to neurotransmitter release for each of the plurality of electrode combinations; and a display for displaying neurotransmitter release for electrode combinations to a clinician.