Implantable Medical Device Lead Charge Induction Cancellation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable medical devices (IMDs) such as cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators experience heating and charge induction when exposed to strong magnetic fields, like those in MRI machines, leading to patient discomfort and potential tissue damage.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an induction-canceling signal generator module in IMDs that generates a signal to reduce or cancel charge induction on the leads during MRI procedures, along with the use of imaging-related mechanisms such as coils to enhance imaging resolution and mitigate heating effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IMDs are exposed to strong magnetic fields during MRI, then imaging can be performed, but charge induction and heating occur causing patient discomfort and tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by generating a cancellation signal before and during MRI exposure to preemptively counteract charge induction. The signal generator creates an equal and opposite signal to the induced charge, neutralizing the harmful effect before it can cause tissue damage or patient discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful MRI magnetic fields into a beneficial diagnostic imaging process while simultaneously neutralizing their harmful effects on the IMD. The same magnetic fields that cause charge induction also enable the imaging procedure, and the cancellation signal transforms the harmful induction into a controlled, neutralized state.
2Measurement precision
If conventional leads are used during MRI, then device simplicity is maintained, but imaging resolution is insufficient and heating occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the lead to simultaneously serve as a medical device component (signal delivery), an imaging enhancement element (through integrated coils), and a heating mitigation structure (through counter-wound coils). This single lead structure performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures by integrating multiple coil windings with different orientations and functions into a single lead assembly. The counter-wound coils are integrated alongside the signal delivery conductors, creating a composite structure that combines imaging enhancement and heating cancellation capabilities.
3Reliability
If induction-canceling signals are generated, then charge induction is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the induced charge during MRI exposure and dynamically adjusting the cancellation signal accordingly. The signal generator receives feedback about the MRI conditions and adjusts its output to maintain optimal charge neutralization, ensuring patient safety while adapting to varying imaging parameters.
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 effectively reduces charge induction and heating on IMDs during MRI, enhancing image resolution and minimizing adverse effects on patient tissue, thereby improving patient safety and device efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging-related mechanism to enhance imaging of the lead and to reduce charge induced upon the conductive mechanism during imaging
Implementation Method 2
generating a signal effective to reduce or cancel charge induced upon a lead of the IMD by the magnetic resonance imaging process
Implementation Method 3
The lead includes a conductive mechanism operable to deliver the signals between the control unit and a target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary techniques, devices, and systems relating to implantable medical devices (IMDs) and IMD features pertaining to imaging and charge induction are described. One IMD includes means for receiving a first signal relating to a magnetic resonance imaging process. The IMD further includes means for generating a second signal effective to reduce or cancel charge induced upon a lead of the IMD by the magnetic resonance imaging process.