EMG Probe Sensing for Soft Palate and Pharyngeal Dysfunction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to effectively diagnose and treat conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, hearing loss, vascular diseases, and urological conditions by accurately assessing muscle and tissue dysfunction in areas like the pharyngeal airway, soft tissues, and nerves, leading to potential cardiovascular and behavioral derangements.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using bipolar surface electrodes and a processor to analyze EMG activity from muscles in the soft palate, pharyngeal wall, and tongue, differentiating between normal and abnormal activity, and grading the severity of muscle dysfunction to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing diagnostic methods are used, then general assessment can be performed, but accurate assessment of muscle and tissue dysfunction in specific areas (pharyngeal airway, soft tissues, nerves) cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic system segments the assessment into specific anatomical regions (pharyngeal airway, soft tissues, nerves) using multiple sensors positioned at different locations. Each sensor detects EMG activity in its specific region, enabling precise localization and assessment of muscle and tissue dysfunction throughout the upper airway.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces EMG sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly detect muscle and tissue dysfunction by measuring electrical activity. These sensors serve as mediators between the physiological conditions and the diagnostic system, converting biological signals into measurable electrical data that can be processed to identify dysfunction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive assessment of multiple conditions (OSA, hearing loss, vascular diseases, urological conditions) is attempted, then diagnostic coverage is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic system achieves multi-functionality by using EMG sensors and processing circuits that can detect and analyze muscle activity patterns relevant to multiple different conditions (OSA, hearing loss, vascular diseases, urological conditions). The same basic sensor array and processing architecture serve diverse diagnostic purposes through software analysis algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system handles multiple conditions by changing the analysis parameters and interpretation algorithms rather than adding separate hardware systems. Different EMG activity patterns are analyzed using varying parameters (frequency, amplitude, temporal characteristics) to identify different pathological states, allowing one system to address multiple diagnostic needs.
3Measurement precision
If detailed analysis of EMG activity patterns is performed, then diagnosis accuracy is improved, but processing time and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary signal processing actions including filtering, amplification, and preliminary pattern recognition during the data collection phase. By preparing and pre-processing the EMG signals in real-time as they are captured, the system reduces the computational burden during final analysis and speeds up the overall diagnostic process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where processed EMG data is immediately reviewed and used to adjust ongoing measurements and analysis. This real-time feedback allows the system to identify and correct errors quickly, reducing the need for extensive re-processing and accelerating the diagnostic timeline while maintaining high accuracy.
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
Enables accurate diagnosis and treatment of conditions by assessing muscle and tissue dynamics, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improving quality of life by addressing muscle and nerve tissue dysfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
sensors configured to sense at least EMG activity of muscle layers
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to methods, systems and probe devices for detecting EMG activity. In some embodiments, such methods, systems and devices are used in aiding the diagnosis of Obstruction Sleep Apnea. In some embodiments, a probe is provided and comprises an elongated member configured with a size and shape for placement adjacent at least one of the soft palate and pharyngeal wall of the patient after insertion of the probe into the patient, and includes at least one sensor configured to sense at least EMG activity of muscle layers of at least one of the soft palate and pharyngeal wall and output sensor signals corresponding thereto. The signals may be monitored for EMG activity, and based on such activity, in some embodiments, a determination of whether the sensor signals of the detected EMG activity correspond to spontaneous EMG activity and/or abnormal motor unit potentials.