Implantable Lead Connector for Multi-Device Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for multiple active implantable medical devices has led to challenges in reducing the number of devices implanted and the number of leads connected to each device, with existing technologies struggling to efficiently interconnect and coordinate the functions of these devices without causing impedance mismatching or damage from stimulation signals.
Innovation Solution
An implantable lead connector with interconnection circuitry that selectively connects and isolates multiple medical devices, using variable impedance ports to manage stimulation signals and physiological signals, allowing devices to share leads and coordinate functions while protecting each other from interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple active implantable medical devices are implanted to address different therapeutic needs, then the therapeutic functionality is improved, but the number of devices and leads increases causing greater surgical complexity and patient burden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple medical devices into a single integrated device that can perform multiple therapeutic functions. The device includes multiple leads with electrodes that can deliver different types of stimulation (pacemaker, defibrillator, nerve stimulation) through a single implantable unit, thereby reducing the number of separate devices and leads while maintaining comprehensive therapeutic capability
Solution Approach 2:
The implanted device is designed with multi-functionality to address various therapeutic needs through a single device. It can function as a pacemaker, defibrillator, and nerve stimulator depending on which leads are connected and how the device is programmed, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If each device has its own leads connected to the target organ, then the device functionality is improved, but the number of leads running through the body increases causing greater surgical complexity and patient discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple leads into a single multi-functional lead assembly. The lead contains multiple electrodes that can be selectively activated to perform different therapeutic functions (pacing, defibrillation, nerve stimulation) depending on the clinical need, thereby reducing the number of separate leads while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The lead is designed as a universal interface that can support multiple therapeutic modalities. By incorporating multiple electrodes and configurable connection points, the single lead can be programmed to deliver different types of electrical stimulation through the same physical pathway, eliminating the need for multiple specialized leads
3Device complexity
If multiple devices share common leads and ports, then the number of implanted components is reduced, but impedance mismatching and interference from stimulation signals may damage devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary isolation circuit between the shared lead and multiple device ports. This circuit acts as a mediator that allows electrical signals to be transmitted while preventing harmful interference and impedance mismatching from affecting connected devices. The isolation circuit includes protective elements that block high-voltage defibrillation signals from damaging low-voltage pacemaker circuitry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the form of variable impedance circuits that can dynamically adjust their electrical characteristics based on the active therapeutic mode. When defibrillation is active, the isolation circuit presents high impedance to protect other devices; when pacing is active, it presents low impedance for optimal signal transmission, thereby adapting to different operational requirements
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
The connector enables efficient sharing of leads and coordination of functions among multiple medical devices, reducing the number of implanted devices and leads, while ensuring safe and effective delivery of therapy by managing impedance and preventing damage from stimulation signals.
Implementation Method 1
variable impedance ports to manage stimulation signals and physiological signals
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable lead connector configured for long term implantation and to electrically interconnect multiple medical devices and to channel electrical signals between said interconnected devices and a target organ, comprising: a first port adapted to receive a first signal suitable to stimulate a target tissue, a second port adapted to receive a second signal suitable to stimulate a target tissue, and a third port configured to connect to a target organ, wherein at least one of said first and second ports is configured to connect to a signal generator not integrated with said connector.